1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2003 Toyota RAV4 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Toyota RAV4. (145 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 281 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2003 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 (200 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2003 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2003 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2500 mm |
