1991 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 932 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1991 Ford Thunderbird | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 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 | 1752 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
