UK vs United Kingdom — 1961 vs 1971
| TR4 IRS | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 104 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,138 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.9 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,249 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 28,465 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | $2,800 | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $50,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between UK and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS versus 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 126 hp compared to 104 hp, a 22-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR4 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,138 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 10.9 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 730 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,353 units built, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR4's 28,465 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1961 Triumph TR4 IRS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.