1999 Nissan R 391 vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan R 391. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan R 391 would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Nissan R 391 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1999 Nissan R 391. (152 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Nissan R 391.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Nissan R 391 (359 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lotus Elise. (210 Nm). This means 1999 Nissan R 391 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lotus Elise. 1999 Nissan R 391 has automatic transmission and 2012 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2012 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Nissan R 391 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Nissan R 391 | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Nissan | Lotus |
| Model | R 391 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
