1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2000 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 38 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Contour (128 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Contour weights approximately 588 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 Ford Contour, 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, 2000 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2000 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2000 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elite | Contour |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
