1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2011 Nissan Versa is newer by 42 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Versa weights approximately 362 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, 2011 Nissan Versa, 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, 2011 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Versa |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4295 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 50 L |
