2002 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 Jeep Wrangler 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 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 375 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 2002 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jeep Wrangler | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Jeep | Lotus |
| Model | Wrangler | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
