1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 9 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 970 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. (191 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Elantra. 2005 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2005 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2005 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Lotus | Hyundai |
| Model | Elan | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
