2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 696 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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, 2003 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2003 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Taurus | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 72.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 889 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 59 L |