1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 922 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Altima |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
