1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Silvia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 10 kg more than 1980 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Silvia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Silvia. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Silvia. 1980 Nissan Silvia has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Silvia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 1980 Nissan Silvia | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Silvia |
Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1770 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
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 |