1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 40 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 690 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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, 2008 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Altima |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
