2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1998 Mercury Villager
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Lotus Elise. (141 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 2001 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercury Villager weights approximately 1085 kg more than 2001 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lotus Elise 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 2001 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lotus Elise | 1998 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elise | Villager |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2860 mm |
