2009 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 20 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 85 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 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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, 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe 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. 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Tahoe | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 332 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 65 L |
