1997 Lotus Elise vs. 1987 Maserati Royale
To start off, 1997 Lotus Elise is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Maserati Royale. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Maserati Royale would be higher. At 4,930 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Maserati Royale is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Maserati Royale (297 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1997 Lotus Elise. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Maserati Royale should accelerate faster than 1997 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Maserati Royale weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1987 Maserati Royale has automatic transmission and 1997 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1997 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Maserati Royale will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lotus Elise | 1987 Maserati Royale | |
| Make | Lotus | Maserati |
| Model | Elise | Royale |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4930 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1940 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2810 mm |
