2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 635 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 2005 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | XLR | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2260 mm |
