1997 Ford Galaxy vs. 1969 Lotus Elan

To start off, 1997 Ford Galaxy is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Galaxy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 790 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.

Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Galaxy, 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, 1997 Ford Galaxy (172 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Galaxy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Galaxy 1969 Lotus Elan
Make Ford Lotus
Model Galaxy Elan
Year Released 1997 1969
Body Type Minivan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1558 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 118 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 172 Nm 146 Nm
Torque RPM 2300 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 72.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1679 kg 889 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1740 mm 1200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2440 mm