1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 22 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 694 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, 2011 Chevrolet Equinox (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 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. 2011 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2011 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2858 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 71 L |
