1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Stanza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 80 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 1981 Nissan Stanza has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Stanza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Stanza |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
