1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Porsche 924
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Porsche 924. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Porsche 924 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Porsche 924 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Porsche 924 (174 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Porsche 924 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Porsche 924 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Porsche 924 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 1980 Porsche 924. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1980 Porsche 924 (250 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1980 Porsche 924 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1980 Porsche 924 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 924 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 174 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1179 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
