2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 58 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | SSR | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2260 mm |
