1986 Ford Escort vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 210 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 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 1970 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Escort | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |
