1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Subaru Legacy
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Subaru Legacy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru Legacy (256 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 463 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 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Legacy (343 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2003 Subaru Legacy 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. 2003 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2003 Subaru Legacy | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elan | Legacy |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
