1953 Ford 12 M vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 16 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1953 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 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 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 12 M | Elan |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1170 mm |
