1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 15 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3200 mm |
