1973 Ford Capri vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1973 Ford Capri is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Ford Capri weights approximately 275 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Capri | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Capri | Elan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1303 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1170 mm |
