1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 40 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Skyline 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 1973 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Skyline. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1973 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
