1991 Jaguar XJR-15 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan

To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Jaguar XJR-15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 would be higher. At 5,993 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 (450 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 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 1991 Jaguar XJR-15. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 (570 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 366 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1991 Jaguar XJR-15 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Jaguar XJR-15 1996 Lotus Elan
Make Jaguar Lotus
Model XJR-15 Elan
Year Released 1991 1996
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 5993 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 450 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 570 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 1 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1050 kg 1020 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 3810 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1110 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2870 mm 2260 mm