1999 Ford 021 C vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Ford 021 C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford 021 C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 Ford 021 C. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford 021 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford 021 C weights approximately 448 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford 021 C, 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 146 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. 1999 Ford 021 C has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford 021 C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford 021 C | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 021 C | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 45 L |
