1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Silvia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 10 kg more than 1981 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Silvia 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 1981 Nissan Silvia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Silvia. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1981 Nissan Silvia | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Silvia |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1769 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |