2006 Acura RL vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Acura RL is newer by 17 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 3,473 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Acura RL (290 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Acura RL weights approximately 555 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.
Because 2006 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Acura RL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2006 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Acura RL | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Acura | Lotus |
Model | RL | Elan |
Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3473 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 347 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 65 L |