1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2004 Porsche Cayenne is newer by 15 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 4,505 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche Cayenne (450 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 1410 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Porsche Cayenne is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Porsche Cayenne will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Porsche Cayenne (620 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2004 Porsche Cayenne has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Porsche Cayenne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2004 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4505 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 99 L |
