1959 Ford Zodiac vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1970 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1959 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 492 kg more than 1970 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 Zodiac | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Zodiac | Elan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1170 mm |
