1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. (129 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 693 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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, 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis (303 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1978 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
Make | Lotus | Mercury |
Model | Elan | Grand Marquis |
Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 129 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 303 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76.2 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2910 mm |