2007 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2007 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 2007 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Versa weights approximately 370 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Versa, 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, 2012 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 2012 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Elise | Versa |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1251 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 50 L |
