1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 36 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (251 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 619 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.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Altima |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
