1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1982 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 2,238 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1982 GMC Jimmy. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1982 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 480 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1982 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 GMC Jimmy 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 GMC Jimmy. (130 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 GMC Jimmy. 1982 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1982 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | Lotus | GMC |
| Model | Elan | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2238 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
