1965 Ford Mustang vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Ford Mustang (208 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Ford Mustang weights approximately 145 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Ford Mustang 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 1965 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Ford Mustang | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Mustang | Elan |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4733 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2260 mm |
