1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Honda Civic
To start off, 2005 Honda Civic is newer by 14 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Honda Civic. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Civic weights approximately 195 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Honda Civic (152 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2005 Honda Civic 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. 2005 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Elan | Civic |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
