1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2012 Subaru Impreza 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Subaru Impreza (265 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Impreza should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 458 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 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza (330 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elan | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 265 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2624 mm |
