1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Honda CR-V
To start off, 2012 Honda CR-V is newer by 20 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda CR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda CR-V (184 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda CR-V should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda CR-V weights approximately 480 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.
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 CR-V (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Honda CR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2012 Honda CR-V has automatic transmission and 1992 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1992 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda CR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2012 Honda CR-V | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Elan | CR-V |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1819 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1645 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
