1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2001 Honda S-MX is newer by 5 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2001 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Honda S-MX weights approximately 310 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2001 Honda S-MX 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, 2001 Honda S-MX 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Honda S-MX. 2001 Honda S-MX 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. 2001 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2001 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Elan | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
