1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1978 Nissan Cherry is newer by 9 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan Cherry weights approximately 125 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Cherry, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2400 mm |
