1956 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 39 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 60 more horse power than 1995 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1995 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 490 kg more than 1995 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5112 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
