1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 942 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2002 Ford Explorer 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. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3200 mm |
