1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Lexus IS
To start off, 2010 Lexus IS is newer by 14 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 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2010 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2010 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus IS weights approximately 525 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2010 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2010 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2010 Lexus IS 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. 2010 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2010 Lexus IS | |
Make | Lotus | Lexus |
Model | Elan | IS |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2231 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2731 mm |