1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 122 more horse power than 1995 Lotus Elan. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Elan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2260 mm |
