1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Citroen Saxo
To start off, 1998 Citroen Saxo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 180 kg more than 1998 Citroen Saxo. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo. 1998 Citroen Saxo 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. 1998 Citroen Saxo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1998 Citroen Saxo | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elan | Saxo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2390 mm |
