2005 Honda NSX vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Honda NSX is newer by 14 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda NSX (241 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda NSX weights approximately 533 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 2005 Honda NSX 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 Honda NSX. 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, 2005 Honda NSX (285 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2005 Honda NSX has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Honda NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda NSX | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | NSX | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 260 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
