1966 Ford Mustang vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1966 Ford Mustang is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 6,385 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Mustang (320 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Mustang weights approximately 599 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1959 Lotus Elite (104 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Mustang. (85 Nm). This means 1959 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Mustang. 1966 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1966 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Ford Mustang | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
Make | Ford | Lotus |
Model | Mustang | Elite |
Year Released | 1966 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6385 cc | 1216 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 85 Nm | 104 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1190 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 29 L |