1999 Lexus GS vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Lexus GS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus GS (225 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus GS weights approximately 640 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus GS 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 1999 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1999 Lexus GS (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 1999 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Lexus GS | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Lexus | Lotus |
Model | GS | Elan |
Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 225 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 65 L |