1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 37 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 761 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 | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1463 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1320 mm |
