1999 Acura NSX vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Acura NSX is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura NSX weights approximately 764 kg more than 1970 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:
| 1999 Acura NSX | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Acura | Lotus |
| Model | NSX | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6000 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 | 1464 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1170 mm |
