1961 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1962 Lotus Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ford Thunderbird (339 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1285 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1961 Ford Thunderbird | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6638 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
