1991 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (219 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1991 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Probe weights approximately 369 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, 1991 Ford Probe, 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 (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Probe | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Probe | Elise |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2310 mm |
