1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Honda Insight
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 62 more horse power than 2012 Honda Insight. (98 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Insight weights approximately 255 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, 2012 Honda Insight (167 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Elan | Insight |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 98 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
