1966 Ford Lotus Cortina vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina. (105 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 92 kg more than 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina 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 Ford Lotus Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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 Ford Lotus Cortina (145 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Lotus Cortina | Elan |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2260 mm |
