1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 17 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1169 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (450 Nm) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 222 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |
