1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 11 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 5,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (339 HP) has 179 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 523 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (483 Nm) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2002 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 339 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2950 mm |
