2005 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1996 Lotus Elan

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina (328 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 644 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Chevrolet Lumina 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 Chevrolet Lumina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Chevrolet Lumina (465 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2005 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chevrolet Lumina 1996 Lotus Elan
Make Chevrolet Lotus
Model Lumina Elan
Year Released 2005 1996
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5800 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 328 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 465 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1664 kg 1020 kg
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2260 mm