1994 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1994 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,815 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lotus Elan weights approximately 10 kg more than 1971 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Nissan Laurel 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 1971 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Laurel. (155 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Elan | 1971 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Laurel |
Year Released | 1994 | 1971 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1815 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |