1998 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 303 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Jensen SV-8 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 1998 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1998 Jensen SV-8 (440 Nm) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1998 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jensen SV-8 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jensen | Lotus |
| Model | SV-8 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2260 mm |
