1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1983 Nissan Bluebird
To start off, 1983 Nissan Bluebird is newer by 17 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Nissan Bluebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Bluebird. (104 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Nissan Bluebird weights approximately 474 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, 1983 Nissan Bluebird, 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, 1983 Nissan Bluebird (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Nissan Bluebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1983 Nissan Bluebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Bluebird |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2560 mm |
