1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1999 TVR Chimaera 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 4,546 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 TVR Chimaera (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 40 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 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1999 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Lotus | TVR |
| Model | Elan | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2290 mm |
