1997 Ford Mustang vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Ford Mustang is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 427 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 1997 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan, 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 Mustang (728 Nm) has 524 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Mustang | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Mustang | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5400 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 590 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 728 Nm | 204 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |