1997 Acura NSX vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Acura NSX is newer by 1 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 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 109 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 350 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 1997 Acura NSX 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 1997 Acura NSX. 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, 1997 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Acura NSX | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Acura | Lotus |
Model | NSX | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 272 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2260 mm |