1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 613 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 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
