1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 McLaren F1
To start off, 1999 McLaren F1 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 6,061 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 McLaren F1 (618 HP) has 458 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 McLaren F1 weights approximately 173 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 1999 McLaren F1 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 1999 McLaren F1. 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, 1999 McLaren F1 (649 Nm) has 506 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1999 McLaren F1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1999 McLaren F1 | |
| Make | Lotus | McLaren |
| Model | Elan | F1 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 6061 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 618 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
