1993 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Maserati Ghibli
To start off, 1998 Maserati Ghibli is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Maserati Ghibli is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Maserati Ghibli (302 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Maserati Ghibli weights approximately 345 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Maserati Ghibli 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 1998 Maserati Ghibli. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1998 Maserati Ghibli (334 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Maserati Ghibli will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 1998 Maserati Ghibli | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elan | Ghibli |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
