1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Maxima 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 597 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2010 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2010 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2776 mm |
