1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 732 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, 2007 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2007 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
