1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1972 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1972 Mercury Comet is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,780 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 Mercury Comet. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercury Comet weights approximately 560 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1972 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elan | Comet |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2800 mm |
