2005 Lexus RX vs. 1996 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lexus RX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus RX (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus RX weights approximately 1205 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lexus RX, 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 Lexus RX (283 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise. 2005 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus RX | 1996 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | RX | Elise |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 705 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.2 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 40 L |
