1995 Lotus Elan vs. 1958 MG MGA
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 MG MGA would be higher. Both 1995 Lotus Elan and 1958 MG MGA are equipped with a 1,588 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1958 MG MGA. (107 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1958 MG MGA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 120 kg more than 1958 MG MGA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 MG MGA is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 MG MGA. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 1958 MG MGA | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | MGA |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2390 mm |
