2008 Jaguar XJ vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XJ 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XJ (400 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 714 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 2008 Jaguar XJ 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 2008 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 Jaguar XJ (560 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 359 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2008 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Jaguar XJ | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
Model | XJ | Elan |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 560 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 65 L |