1989 Buick Reatta vs. 1994 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Reatta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Reatta would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Reatta weights approximately 512 kg more than 1994 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, 1989 Buick Reatta (285 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan. 1989 Buick Reatta has automatic transmission and 1994 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1994 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Buick Reatta | 1994 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Buick | Lotus |
Model | Reatta | Elan |
Year Released | 1989 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 204 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1532 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |