1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2005 Nissan Frontier is newer by 34 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Frontier (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 516 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Frontier will offer significantly more control. 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 Frontier (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2005 Nissan Frontier 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. 2005 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2005 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2660 mm |
