1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2009 Porsche Cayenne 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 4,806 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Porsche Cayenne (399 HP) has 239 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 353 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 2009 Porsche Cayenne 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, 2009 Porsche Cayenne 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, 2009 Porsche Cayenne (500 Nm) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4806 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 399 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 253 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
