UK vs United Kingdom — 1958 vs 1976
| Elite Type 14 | Elite Type 75 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 83 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 80 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,216 cc | 1,973 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.4 sec | 8.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,113 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,451 mm |
| Length | 3,683 mm | 4,495 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,030 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,895 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1976 Lotus Elite Type 75 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14 offers stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Lotus Elite. The 1958 and 1976 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1976 Lotus Elite Type 75 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 83 hp, a 77-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elite uses a Inline-4 SOHC (Coventry Climax FWE) displacing 1,216 cc, while the Lotus Elite relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Lotus 907 with 1,973 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1976 Lotus Elite Type 75 edges ahead at 8.4 seconds versus 11.4 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.