1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Vauxhall Carlton
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Vauxhall Carlton would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Vauxhall Carlton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Vauxhall Carlton weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1986 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1986 Vauxhall Carlton | |
Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
Model | Elan | Carlton |
Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 144 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |