1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 13 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (316 Nm @ 2950 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
