UK vs UK — 1956 vs 1979
| Eleven Le Mans | Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 83 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 152 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,098 cc | 2,174 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 123 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,001 lbs | 2,117 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,235 mm | 2,413 mm |
| Length | 3,505 mm | 3,959 mm |
| Units Produced | 270 | 2,308 |
| Original MSRP | $2,800 | $12,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1956 Lotus Eleven Le Mans excels in higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity, while the 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1956 Lotus Eleven Le Mans 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 83 hp, a 67-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Eleven uses a Inline-4 SOHC displacing 1,098 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 9.5 seconds. The Lotus Eleven carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1116 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 270 units built, the 1956 Lotus Eleven Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Sunbeam Lotus's 2,308 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 Lotus Eleven Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1979 Lotus Sunbeam Lotus 2.2 16V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 Lotus Eleven Le Mans rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.