2005 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 16 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 494 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, 2005 Chevrolet Impala (305 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Impala | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Impala | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1514 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
