1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Citroen C5
To start off, 2012 Citroen C5 is newer by 16 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C5 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C5 weights approximately 816 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, 2012 Citroen C5 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2012 Citroen C5 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. 2012 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2012 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Citroen |
| Model | Elan | C5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2820 mm |
