UK vs UK — 1952 vs 1979
| Mark VI Standard | Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 50 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 54 lb-ft | 152 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,172 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 15.0 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 90 mph | 123 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 953 lbs | 2,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,413 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 3,959 mm |
| Units Produced | 110 | 2,308 |
| Original MSRP | $1,100 | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard and 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V 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 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V holds a clear advantage in raw power with 150 hp compared to 50 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Mark VI uses a Inline-4 SV displacing 1,172 cc, while the Lotus Sunbeam Lotus relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 2,174 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V edges ahead at 6.6 seconds versus 15.0 seconds. The Lotus Mark VI carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1164 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 110 units built, the 1952 Lotus Mark VI Standard is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Sunbeam Lotus's 2,308 examples.