1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1981 Nissan Laurel is newer by 13 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Laurel (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 325 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 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
