1984 Ford Escort vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1984 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Escort, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Escort | Elan |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2140 mm |
