1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 1996 Rover 400 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400.
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 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elan | 400 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
