1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is newer by 18 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (292 HP) has 132 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercury Mountaineer (427 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elan | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 292 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |
