1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1964 NSU Prinz
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 NSU Prinz. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 NSU Prinz 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 130 more horse power than 1964 NSU Prinz. (30 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1964 NSU Prinz. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 432 kg more than 1964 NSU Prinz. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 NSU Prinz 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 1964 NSU Prinz. 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 NSU Prinz. (42 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 NSU Prinz.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1964 NSU Prinz | |
| Make | Lotus | NSU |
| Model | Elan | Prinz |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1964 |
| 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 | 30 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2010 mm |
