1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 514 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Lotus | NSU |
| Model | Elan | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 37 L |
