1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1988 Porsche 911
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,162 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Porsche 911 (228 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Porsche 911 weights approximately 213 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 1988 Porsche 911 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 1988 Porsche 911. 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, 1988 Porsche 911 (286 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1988 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1988 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 911 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3162 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 74.4 mm |
| 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 | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2270 mm |
