1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 564 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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, 1986 Subaru XT (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Elise | XT |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
