1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2011 GMC Sierra is newer by 15 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1291 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.
Because 2011 GMC Sierra 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 2011 GMC Sierra. 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, 2011 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2011 GMC Sierra 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. 2011 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2011 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Lotus | GMC |
| Model | Elan | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 413 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3645 mm |
