UK vs UK — 1954 vs 1952
| TR2 Long Door | Mark VI Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 90 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 116 lb-ft | 54 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,991 cc | 1,172 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.9 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 mph | 90 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.3 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | 1,896 lbs | 953 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,835 mm | 3,480 mm |
| Units Produced | 8,636 | 110 |
| Original MSRP | $2,499 | $1,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $85,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door for outright capability, or the 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door versus the 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard. Both hail from Post-war and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 50 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Triumph TR2 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,991 cc, while the Lotus Mark VI relies on a Inline-4 SV with 1,172 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1954 Triumph TR2 Long Door edges ahead at 11.9 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. The Lotus Mark VI carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 943 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 110 units built, the 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard is considerably scarcer than the Triumph TR2's 8,636 examples.