1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 520 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 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3491 cc |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2660 mm |
