1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Nissan Hardbody
To start off, 2006 Nissan Hardbody 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Nissan Hardbody. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Nissan Hardbody.
Because 2006 Nissan Hardbody 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 Hardbody. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Nissan Hardbody. (174 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Nissan Hardbody.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2006 Nissan Hardbody | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Hardbody |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2960 mm |
