1997 Ford Ka vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ka weights approximately 184 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka, 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Ka | Elan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1557 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
