THE GLOBAL CAR CATALOG

Lotus Elan Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1989–1995) — First Generation

The first-generation Lotus Elan is a compact British roadster built around lightness rather than brute power. In open Cabrio form, it turned modest outputs into genuinely quick, agile motoring on ordinary roads.

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3 modificationsAll supplied years

Lotus Elan Engines and Transmissions

Every Lotus Elan engine in this generation is gasoline-fuelled, and the car's low mass matters more than peak figures: a small four-cylinder feels lively because there is so little weight to move. The powertrain drives the rear wheels through a manual transmission, giving the drivetrain a direct, mechanical feel.

Cabrio — Lotus Elan Engines and Transmissions

Cabrio Lotus Elan Engines and Transmissions
ModificationEngine typeEngine capacityMaximum powerMaximum power, kwMaximum torque N⋅mTransmissionType of drive
1.6 MTGasoline1588 cm³132 hp97 kW142 N⋅mManualFWD
1.6 MTGasoline1588 cm³158 hp116 kW198 N⋅mManualFWD
1.6 MTGasoline1588 cm³167 hp123 kW201 N⋅mManualFWD

Lotus Elan Dimensions

Cabrio — Lotus Elan Dimensions

Cabrio Lotus Elan Dimensions
ModificationLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseCurb weightMax weightGround clearance, minimum
1.6 MT3900 mm1735 mm1230 mm2250 mm995 kgNot provided130 mm
1.6 MT3900 mm1735 mm1230 mm2250 mm1020 kg1270 kg130 mm
1.6 MT3900 mm1735 mm1230 mm2250 mm1020 kgNot provided130 mm

Lotus Elan Cargo Space

Cabrio — Lotus Elan Cargo Space

Cabrio Lotus Elan Cargo Space
ModificationTrunk volume min
1.6 MT185 l
1.6 MT185 l
1.6 MT185 l