1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 21 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), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP) has 106 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 1124 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.
Because 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. 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, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder 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. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| 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 | 266 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2121 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4884 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1834 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2850 mm |
