1996 Lotus Elise 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 Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Matrix (156 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 775 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2013 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elise | 2013 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elise | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4365 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
