1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 44 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 1450 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. 2012 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
