1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1966 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1996 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1188 kg more than 1966 Lotus Seven. 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. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 1966 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Seven |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| 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 | 1620 kg | 432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 29 L |
