1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 100 more horse power than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 192 kg more than 2006 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Smart ForTwo. 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Lotus | Smart |
| Model | Elan | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 67 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 135 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 | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1820 mm |
