1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 6 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 560 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2002 Acura CL 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. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2002 Acura CL | |
Make | Lotus | Acura |
Model | Elan | CL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 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 | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |