1955 Ford 12 M vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1982 Lotus Esprit is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1955 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:
| 1955 Ford 12 M | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 12 M | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
