1983 Ford Fairlane vs. 1964 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1983 Ford Fairlane is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Fairlane (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan.
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. 1983 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fairlane | 1964 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Fairlane | Elan |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2140 mm |
