1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1989 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 1989 Nissan Prairie is newer by 23 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Prairie weights approximately 279 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, 1989 Nissan Prairie, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Prairie. (121 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1989 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Prairie |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1989 |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2520 mm |
