1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Maybach 57
To start off, 2011 Maybach 57 is newer by 20 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Maybach 57 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Maybach 57 (543 HP) has 383 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Maybach 57 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Maybach 57 weights approximately 1738 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 2011 Maybach 57 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 2011 Maybach 57. 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, 2011 Maybach 57 (899 Nm) has 756 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2011 Maybach 57 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2011 Maybach 57 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. 2011 Maybach 57 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2011 Maybach 57 | |
| Make | Lotus | Maybach |
| Model | Elan | 57 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 543 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 899 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5728 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1575 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3391 mm |
