1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
Make | Lotus | Toyota |
Model | Elan | MR2 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 131 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1615 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |