2004 Lotus Elise vs. 1966 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Cougar would be higher. At 4,728 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercury Cougar (129 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 2004 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 612 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 2004 Lotus Elise | 1966 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercury |
| Model | Elise | Cougar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4728 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2830 mm |
