2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 13 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 597 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2009 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick LaCrosse | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | LaCrosse | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2260 mm |
