1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1998 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1998 Mercury Villager is newer by 24 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercury Villager weights approximately 740 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1998 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elite | Villager |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
