1999 Lexus RX vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Lexus RX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus RX (220 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus RX weights approximately 1410 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus RX 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 RX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 RX (301 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 1999 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus RX | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | RX | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
