1989 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Escort weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Escort | Elise |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7800 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2310 mm |