2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 671 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 2008 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Nitro | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Dodge | Lotus |
Model | Nitro | Elan |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 319 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 65 L |