1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1990 Holden Nova
To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 24 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 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Holden Nova weights approximately 319 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Holden Nova, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova. 1990 Holden Nova 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. 1990 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1990 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Lotus | Holden |
| Model | Elan | Nova |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2440 mm |
