2009 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 355 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 1375 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2260 mm |
