From Car and Driver · · 1m 50s
Front-Wheel-Drive Heresy
Lotus tests 1992 Elan as front-drive sports car.
In brief
Lotus tests 1992 Elan as front-drive sports car. The 1992 Lotus Elan, with a 162-horsepower Isuzu turbo four, delivers exceptional handling and is Lotus's best car despite its front-wheel-drive layout. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
Lotus Elan Test
Car and Driver tests 1992 Lotus Elan as front-wheel-drive sports car.
Front-Drive Layout
Lotus engineers chose front-wheel-drive for better traction, secure handling, and powertrain adaptability.
Powertrain
Isuzu turbo four engine produces 162 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 148 pound-feet of torque at 4200 rpm.
Cockpit Design
Elan cockpit has two seats, generous leg and elbow room, and head room even with soft top.
Body Style
Elan is 152.2 inches long, nearly half that wide, with drop-away nose and sweptback windshield.
Driving Experience
Elan drives smoothly with light clutch engagement and no stalls or cranking.
Handling Performance
Elan skidpad rating of 0.86 g with minimal understeer and balanced cornering.
Tires and Brakes
Goodyear Eagle GS-D tires and four-wheel disc brakes provide strong stopping power.
Price and Availability
Base price $40,989 with 1000 units imported to U.S. this year.
Rival Comparison
Elan outperforms Porsche 944S2 Cabriolet and Chevrolet Corvette convertible in handling.
Interior Features
Elan has leather seats, power amenities, and Sony audio system but no rear seats.
Test Results
Elan accelerates to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds with top speed of 131 mph.
Rivals
Porsche 944S2 Cabriolet and Chevrolet Corvette convertible are main competitors.
Price Comparison
Elan costs $40,989 versus Porsche $53,155 and Corvette starting at $40,252.
Key Strengths
Elan offers best handling for front-wheel-drive cars with 162 hp and 2452 lb curb weight.
Conclusion
Elan is Lotus's finest car despite front-wheel-drive layout and limited production.
What it means
The 1992 Lotus Elan, with a 162-horsepower Isuzu turbo four, delivers exceptional handling and is Lotus's best car despite its front-wheel-drive layout.
