1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2005 Saturn Relay 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn Relay (200 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn Relay weights approximately 1113 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 2005 Saturn Relay 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, 2005 Saturn Relay 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, 2005 Saturn Relay (299 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 Saturn Relay | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | Relay |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3080 mm |
