1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX (124 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Nissan 260 ZX should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan 260 ZX weights approximately 340 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1978 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
