1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 975 kg more than 1990 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Phaeton |
Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 1995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |