1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1976 Ford Cortina is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (73 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Cortina weights approximately 454 kg more than 1962 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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Ford Cortina (117 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Cortina | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Cortina | Elite |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1114 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 29 L |
