1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2011 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 21 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick LaCrosse (280 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 815 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, 2011 Buick LaCrosse (351 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2011 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2011 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 2011 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | Lotus | Buick |
Model | Elan | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
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 | 163 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 351 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 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 | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5001 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2837 mm |