2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1996 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 3,798 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 870 kg more than 2001 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lotus Elise | 1996 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elise | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
