1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 21 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (171 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 501 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Escape (232 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Ford Escape 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. 2012 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Escape |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 171 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2619 mm |
