2000 Lotus Elise vs. 1959 MG Midget
To start off, 2000 Lotus Elise is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Lotus Elise (143 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1959 MG Midget. (62 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1959 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 MG Midget weights approximately 130 kg more than 2000 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Lotus Elise | 1959 MG Midget | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Elise | Midget |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1466 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2400 mm |
