1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 84 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 1987 Lotus Esprit 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Lotus | Lotus |
Model | Elan | Esprit |
Year Released | 1991 | 1987 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1104 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |