1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,112 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Ford Thunderbird (223 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 808 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1956 Ford Thunderbird | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1170 mm |
