Japan vs United Kingdom — 1965 vs 1971
| Sports 800 UP15 | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 45 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 42 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 790 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 19.5 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 96 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 21.2 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,279 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,000 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 3,580 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,131 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 counters with lighter weight, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When Japan engineering meets United Kingdom craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1965 Toyota Sports 800 UP15 and 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 126 hp compared to 45 hp, a 81-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota Sports 800 uses a Flat-2 OHV displacing 790 cc, while the Lotus Elan Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 19.5 seconds. The Toyota Sports 800 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 240 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.