1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2006 Porsche Boxster 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 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche Boxster (225 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Porsche Boxster weights approximately 389 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 2006 Porsche Boxster 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 Porsche Boxster. 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 Porsche Boxster (260 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2006 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2006 Porsche Boxster 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. 2006 Porsche Boxster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2006 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | Boxster |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 253 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |
