1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1984 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Nissan Leopard (213 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Nissan Leopard weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Nissan Leopard 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 1984 Nissan Leopard. 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, 1984 Nissan Leopard (335 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1984 Nissan Leopard will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 1984 Nissan Leopard 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. 1984 Nissan Leopard will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1984 Nissan Leopard | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elan | Leopard |
Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2960 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 213 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 335 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |