1996 Lotus Elise vs. 1998 Nissan Terrano II
To start off, 1998 Nissan Terrano II is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Nissan Terrano II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 116 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan Terrano II weights approximately 920 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 Nissan Terrano II is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Nissan Terrano II 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, 1998 Nissan Terrano II (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Nissan Terrano II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elise | 1998 Nissan Terrano II | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elise | Terrano II |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2470 mm |
