1981 Ford Falcon vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Falcon weights approximately 373 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 1981 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Ford Falcon (228 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Falcon | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Falcon | Elan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2260 mm |
