1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 41 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 528 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 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, 2012 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Altima |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 244 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1398 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2675 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 76 L |