1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Nissan Santana
To start off, 1986 Nissan Santana is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Nissan Santana weights approximately 370 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Nissan Santana, 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. 1986 Nissan Santana has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1986 Nissan Santana | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Santana |
Year Released | 1971 | 1986 |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1400 mm |