1959 Ford 17M vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1966 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1959 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford 17M weights approximately 419 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
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 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | 17M | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
