2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 35 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elise | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2110 mm |
