1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1290 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | T5 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
