1959 Ford 12 M vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1959 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 12 M.
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:
| 1959 Ford 12 M | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 12 M | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1200 mm |
