UK vs West Germany — 1958 vs 1956
| Elite Type 14 | 356A Carrera GT Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 83 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 80 lb-ft | 83 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,216 cc | 1,498 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.4 sec | 10.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.8 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,113 lbs | 1,940 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,683 mm | 3,950 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,030 | 700 |
| Original MSRP | $3,895 | $4,950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $800,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
The 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14 counters with lighter weight, better value, 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.
When UK engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14 and 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14 producing 83 hp and the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe delivering 100 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elite uses a Inline-4 SOHC (Coventry Climax FWE) displacing 1,216 cc, while the Porsche 356A relies on a Flat-4 DOHC (Type 547/1) with 1,498 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe edges ahead at 10.0 seconds versus 11.4 seconds. The Lotus Elite carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 827 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1956 Porsche 356A Carrera GT Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1958 Lotus Elite Type 14, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.