1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 2,782 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1971 Mercury Comet. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercury Comet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercury Comet weights approximately 200 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Mercury Comet 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 1971 Mercury Comet. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercury Comet. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercury Comet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1971 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elan | Comet |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
