2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 241 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.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Traverse | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2260 mm |
