1970 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Nissan 370Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 370Z is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 370Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 370Z (332 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 370Z should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan 370Z weights approximately 854 kg more than 1970 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 2009 Nissan 370Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | 370Z |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1320 mm |
