1985 Ford Taurus vs. 2001 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Taurus (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2001 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2001 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Taurus weights approximately 695 kg more than 2001 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lotus Elise 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 2001 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus, 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, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Taurus | 2001 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Taurus | Elise |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 31 L |
