1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Ford Cortina
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (95 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford Cortina weights approximately 98 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 Ford Cortina 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 1970 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1970 Ford Cortina (148 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1970 Ford Cortina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1970 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1970 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Cortina |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2590 mm |
