1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1977 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1977 Nissan Skyline is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Nissan Skyline (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 340 kg more than 1969 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. Let's talk about torque, 1977 Nissan Skyline (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1977 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
