2009 Honda Civic vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,798 cc, 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 109 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
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, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1588 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
