1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 55 more horse power than 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (105 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 410 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (145 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 105 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3865 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
