1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 21 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Equinox (182 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 708 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 2012 Chevrolet Equinox is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Equinox 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, 2012 Chevrolet Equinox (233 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox 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. 2012 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Chevrolet Equinox | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elan | Equinox |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2858 mm |
