1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2006 Panoz Esperante is newer by 15 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Panoz Esperante (305 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2006 Panoz Esperante 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 2006 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2006 Panoz Esperante (434 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2006 Panoz Esperante | |
Make | Lotus | Panoz |
Model | Elan | Esperante |
Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4589 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 434 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |