1986 Ford Orion vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 Ford Orion is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Orion. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Orion weights approximately 258 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion, 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 Orion | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Orion | Elan |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1558 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 |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1170 mm |
