2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 298 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Elantra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 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 | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
