1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Porsche 911
To start off, 2007 Porsche 911 is newer by 11 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 3,605 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Porsche 911 (481 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2007 Porsche 911 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, 2007 Porsche 911 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, 2007 Porsche 911 (624 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2007 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Elan | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 481 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 624 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2360 mm |
