1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 358 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. 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 Mustang (332 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Mustang | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Mustang | Elan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2260 mm |
