2005 Ford Ka vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 58 kg more than 2005 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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. Let's talk about torque, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Ka | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
