1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Chevrolet Camaro
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 24 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Camaro (319 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 695 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 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 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 2013 Chevrolet Camaro. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Camaro (377 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2013 Chevrolet Camaro | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Camaro |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 319 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.5 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4836 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1918 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1377 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
