1988 Buick Reatta vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Reatta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Reatta would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 516 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Buick Reatta (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan. 1988 Buick Reatta has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Buick Reatta | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Buick | Lotus |
Model | Reatta | Elan |
Year Released | 1988 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |