1959 Ford 17M vs. 1960 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1960 Lotus Elite is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 17M would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Ford 17M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Lotus Elite (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1959 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1960 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford 17M weights approximately 535 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite.
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 17M | 1960 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 17M | Elite |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2240 mm |
