1995 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 MG Midget
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1969 MG Midget. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 300 kg more than 1969 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 MG Midget 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 1969 MG Midget. 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 MG Midget. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 MG Midget.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 1969 MG Midget | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elan | Midget |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |
