1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Ford Ka. (68 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Ka weights approximately 280 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Ka, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 102 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2012 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elite | Ka |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 35 L |
