2008 Lexus RX vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX 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 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 890 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 Lexus RX 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, 2008 Lexus RX 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, 2008 Lexus RX (340 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2008 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | RX | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 65 L |
