2006 Ford S-Max vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 661 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. 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, 2006 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | S-Max | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1681 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2260 mm |
