1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1996 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 1996 Mercury Cougar is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 3,798 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 560 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
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:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1996 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elite | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 0 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
