1968 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (165 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 563 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Chevrolet Nova 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 1968 Chevrolet Nova. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1968 Chevrolet Nova (388 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1968 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Chevrolet Nova | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Nova | Elan |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2260 mm |
