1953 Ford 12 M vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1953 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1953 Ford 12 M.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Ford 12 M | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 12 M | Elan |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2140 mm |
