2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Cherry weights approximately 65 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 1981 Nissan Cherry has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lotus Elise | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Elise | Cherry |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2400 mm |