United Kingdom vs United Kingdom — 1967 vs 1971
| 3000 MkIII Phase 2 | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,912 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.8 sec | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.3 sec | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,509 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 17,712 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | $3,595 | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $95,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2 counters with more power, 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.
The 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2 and 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Phase 2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 126 hp, a 24-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,912 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 9.8 seconds. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 990 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 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII's 17,712 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.