1965 Ford Mustang vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1965 Ford Mustang is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,261 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Ford Mustang (163 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Ford Mustang weights approximately 526 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:
| 1965 Ford Mustang | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Mustang | Elan |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4261 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2140 mm |
