2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 623 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Cadillac CTS 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 2003 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | CTS | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
