1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII
To start off, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII weights approximately 3097 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII | |
| Make | Lotus | Lincoln |
| Model | Elan | Mark VIII |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 3757 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5263 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1361 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2870 mm |
