2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,803 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lotus Elise weights approximately 41 kg more than 1958 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:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elise | 356 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 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 | 896 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 52 L |
