1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Citroen C5
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 18 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 54 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C5. (106 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (250 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2009 Citroen C5 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. 2009 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elan | C5 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1527 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
