2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans would be higher. At 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. (84 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1335 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. 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:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | XI Le Mans |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1096 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
