1957 Ford 12 M vs. 1998 Lotus Elise
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1957 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford 12 M weights approximately 186 kg more than 1998 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:
| 1957 Ford 12 M | 1998 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 12 M | Elise |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1210 mm |
