2002 Acura RSX vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 13 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RSX weights approximately 210 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX 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. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Acura | Lotus |
| Model | RSX | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
