2008 Honda Civic vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 19 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 1,667 cc, 2008 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (177 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 230 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.
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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic. 2008 Honda Civic 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. 2008 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1667 cc | 1588 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
