1996 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 436 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour, 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Contour | Elise |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 806 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |