1987 Lincoln Mark VII vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1987 Lincoln Mark VII is newer by 17 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 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Lincoln Mark VII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lincoln Mark VII (138 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lincoln Mark VII should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lincoln Mark VII weights approximately 950 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1987 Lincoln Mark VII has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Lincoln Mark VII will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lincoln Mark VII | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Lincoln | Lotus |
| Model | Mark VII | Elan |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |
