2007 Cadillac STS vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Cadillac STS is newer by 11 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Cadillac STS weights approximately 615 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2007 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Cadillac STS | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | STS | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2260 mm |
