1997 Acura NSX vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Acura NSX is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 710 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Acura | Lotus |
| Model | NSX | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2140 mm |
