2006 Ford Focus vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 291 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
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, 2006 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
