2004 Honda NSX vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Honda NSX is newer by 38 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda NSX weights approximately 734 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. 2004 Honda NSX has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Honda NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda NSX | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | NSX | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
