1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1982 Mercury LN7
To start off, 1982 Mercury LN7 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Mercury LN7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1982 Mercury LN7. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercury LN7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercury LN7 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Mercury LN7, 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, 1982 Mercury LN7 (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1982 Mercury LN7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1982 Mercury LN7 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elite | LN7 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 978 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 43 L |
