2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Lotus Elan weights approximately 54 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Explorer | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
