UK vs UK — 1998 vs 1990
| Elise S1 | Carlton Omega | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 120 hp | 377 hp |
| Torque | 122 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,796 cc | 3,615 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 126 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,300 mm | 2,730 mm |
| Length | 3,726 mm | 4,813 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 950 |
| Value (Excellent) | $58,000 | $160,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1998 Lotus Elise S1 brings better value to the table, and the 1990 Lotus Carlton Omega answers with more power. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Lotus has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1998 Lotus Elise S1 with the 1990 Lotus Carlton Omega highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1990 Lotus Carlton Omega holds a clear advantage in raw power with 377 hp compared to 120 hp, a 257-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elise uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 1,796 cc, while the Lotus Carlton relies on a Inline-6 with 3,615 cc. On the collector market, the 1990 Lotus Carlton Omega commands a significant premium over the 1998 Lotus Elise S1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.