1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1964 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1964 Ford Zodiac. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1964 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 273 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1964 Ford Zodiac 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 1964 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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. Let's talk about torque, 1964 Ford Zodiac (191 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1964 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 1964 Ford Zodiac has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1964 Ford Zodiac will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1964 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Elan | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2780 mm |
