Against 281 other 4-cyl cars rated 1991–1993, the Elan sits right on their 23.9 mpg average.
Every Lotus Elan engine, compared
The Lotus Elan was rated in a single specification, so its gas mileage does not vary by version — only by model year. Yearly cost assumes 12,000 miles at $3.20 a gallon.
| Engine | Combined | City / Highway | Years | Fuel per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6L 4-cyl | 20.7 / 28.7 | 1991–1993 | $1,620 |
What that actually costs
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Cost per mile (1993) | $0.139 |
| Fuel per year | $1,670 |
| Fuel over five years | $8,350 |
| Against other 4-cyl cars, 1991–1993 | +$63 a year |
| EPA's own estimate | $3,250 a year |
City or highway — who is this car for
The 1993 Lotus Elan gives up 8 mpg in town: 28 on the highway against 20 in the city, $549 a year if every mile were city driving.
| Measure | Value | Reading |
|---|---|---|
| City (1993) | 20 mpg | $1,920 a year if you only drive in town |
| Highway | 28 mpg | $1,371 a year if you mostly commute |
| Gap | +8 mpg (40%) | Wide — this car dislikes traffic |
How the Elan changed over the years
The Elan peaked in 1992 at 24 mpg (21 city, 29 highway) and was at its thirstiest in 1993 at 23 — 1 mpg apart, or $70 a year in fuel between buying one year and the other. The 1993 car does 23.
| Model year | Combined | City / Highway | Engines offered | Fuel per year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 20 / 28 | 1 | $1,670 | |
| 1992 | 21 / 29 | 1 | $1,600 | |
| 1991 | 21 / 29 | 1 | $1,600 |
MPG is a number. Dollars per year is the answer.
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How we count
This page rests on 3 EPA ratings of the Lotus Elan — 1 engine across 1991–1993. The mileage is EPA's laboratory figure, unchanged; the yearly bill is ours, at 12,000 miles and $3.20 a gallon, against EPA's own estimate of $3,250. Full method.
Frequently asked questions
What mpg does the 1993 Lotus Elan get?
23 mpg combined, 20 city and 28 highway, per EPA. Across every year since 1991 the Elan has averaged 23.7 mpg.
Is the 1993 Elan more efficient than the 1992?
No: 23 against 24 mpg combined, about $70 a year more to run.
Which Elan year has the best gas mileage?
The 1992, at 24 mpg combined (21 city, 29 highway).
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