1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 NSU Prinz I
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 NSU Prinz I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 NSU Prinz I would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 140 more horse power than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (20 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 NSU Prinz I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 481 kg more than 1959 NSU Prinz I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 NSU Prinz I 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 1959 NSU Prinz I. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 NSU Prinz I. (41 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 NSU Prinz I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1959 NSU Prinz I | |
| Make | Lotus | NSU |
| Model | Elan | Prinz I |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 20 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 109 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2010 mm |
