1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Toyota Avalon
To start off, 2004 Toyota Avalon 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Avalon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Avalon (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Avalon should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Avalon weights approximately 530 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.
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, 2004 Toyota Avalon (279 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota Avalon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2004 Toyota Avalon 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 Toyota Avalon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2004 Toyota Avalon | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Avalon |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
