United Kingdom vs Germany — 1971 vs 1972
| Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | 911 Carrera RS 2.7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 126 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 117 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,558 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.2 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 1,519 lbs | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,134 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 3,658 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,353 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $4,795 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe offers lighter weight, 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 United Kingdom and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe versus 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 126 hp, a 84-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elan Sprint uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,558 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 631 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 commands a significant premium over the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.