2005 Honda Civic vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Honda Civic 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Civic weights approximately 240 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Honda Civic. (192 Nm @ 5900 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Civic | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
