2009 Ford Focus vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 552 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 59 L |
