1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 40 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 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (133 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 1229 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.
Because 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elan | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 57 L |
