1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2008 Porsche Cayman is newer by 18 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 3,386 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Porsche Cayman (291 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 395 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.
Because 2008 Porsche Cayman 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 2008 Porsche Cayman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2008 Porsche Cayman (340 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 2008 Porsche Cayman | |
Make | Lotus | Porsche |
Model | Elan | Cayman |
Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3386 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 291 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |