1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 332 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Focus | Elise |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 912 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1118 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2299 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 44 L |