1969 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1969 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 7 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 7,029 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (355 HP) has 272 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite.
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, 1969 Ford Thunderbird (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1969 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 1969 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Thunderbird | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elite |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7029 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 29 L |
