1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2013 Toyota Matrix is newer by 17 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Matrix. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 265 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Toyota Matrix. (174 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Toyota Matrix. 2013 Toyota Matrix 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. 2013 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2013 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4365 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |
