1955 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 57 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, 2012 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 550 kg more than 2012 Lotus Elise.
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 | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elise |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4785 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2299 mm |
