1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith would be higher. At 4,257 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. (124 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith weights approximately 1114 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith 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 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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. 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith | |
| Make | Lotus | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Elan | Silver Wraith |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1951 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4257 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3050 mm |
