1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2010 Dodge Nitro is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Dodge Nitro (260 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2010 Dodge Nitro 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 2010 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2010 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2010 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2010 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2010 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Lotus | Dodge |
| Model | Elan | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4544 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2764 mm |
