# Front-Wheel-Drive Heresy

> Lotus tests 1992 Elan as front-drive sports car.
- Title: Front-Wheel-Drive Heresy · Car and Driver | Shortify
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: lotus, elan, isuzu, 1992, front-wheel-drive, sports car, convertible, handling, turbo four, 162 hp, 148 lb-ft torque, 2452 lb curb weight
- Source: Car and Driver — https://caranddriver.com/reviews/a73958972/1992-lotus-elan-archive-test
- Published: 2026-10-05T16:45:14+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: lotus, elan, isuzu, 1992, front-wheel-drive, sports car, convertible, handling, turbo four, 162 hp, 148 lb-ft torque, 2452 lb curb weight
## 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.
## Key takeaway

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.