1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Ford Granada
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,292 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (112 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Granada weights approximately 343 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. 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, 1981 Ford Granada (176 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1981 Ford Granada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1981 Ford Granada 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. 1981 Ford Granada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1981 Ford Granada | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Granada |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 112 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 60.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2780 mm |
