1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Porsche 996
To start off, 2003 Porsche 996 is newer by 12 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP) has 157 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche 996 weights approximately 488 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 2003 Porsche 996 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 2003 Porsche 996. 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 996 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2360 mm |
