1993 Lotus Elan vs. 1980 Nissan Bluebird
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Bluebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Bluebird weights approximately 250 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Because 1980 Nissan Bluebird 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 1980 Nissan Bluebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. 1980 Nissan Bluebird has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Bluebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 1980 Nissan Bluebird | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Bluebird |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
