1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (200 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 981 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1964 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner (263 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elan | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
