2005 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Lexus IS 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 486 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2005 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | IS | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2260 mm |
