1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2009 Mercury Sable is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Sable (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercury Sable weights approximately 1496 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Elan 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Sable, 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. 2009 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercury Sable | |
Make | Lotus | Mercury |
Model | Elan | Sable |
Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1926 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 5140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 78 L |