2006 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 695 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
