1990 Ford Escort vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 Ford Escort is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1990 Ford Escort. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Escort weights approximately 395 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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:
| 1990 Ford Escort | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Escort | Elan |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1170 mm |
