1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 45 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1296 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 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan. 2013 Ford Explorer 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. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
