1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1964 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1964 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,785 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Ford Thunderbird (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 886 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Thunderbird | 1964 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
Year Released | 1955 | 1964 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4785 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 209 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2140 mm |