1998 Ford Laser vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Laser | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
