United Kingdom vs United Kingdom — 2015 vs 1963
| Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 | Cortina Mk1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 189 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 105 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,798 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 sec | 9.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 108 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.9 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,980 lbs | 1,848 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,301 mm | 2,489 mm |
| Length | 3,785 mm | 4,267 mm |
| Units Produced | 850 | 3,306 |
| Original MSRP | $48,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $58,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 7/10 |
The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1963 Lotus Cortina Mk1 brings lighter weight and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Lotus heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 and 1963 Lotus Cortina Mk1 share a manufacturer in Lotus, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Lotus brand. The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 189 hp compared to 105 hp, a 84-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elise Sport 190 uses a 1.8L Supercharged I4 displacing 1,798 cc, while the Lotus Cortina relies on a Inline-4 DOHC (Lotus-Ford Twin Cam) with 1,558 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 9.9 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 850 units built, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Cortina's 3,306 examples.