1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Noble M12
To start off, 2004 Noble M12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Noble M12 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Noble M12 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 2004 Noble M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2004 Noble M12 (486 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1992 Lotus Elan | 2004 Noble M12 | |
Make | Lotus | Noble |
Model | Elan | M12 |
Year Released | 1992 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 486 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |