2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven 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 175 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 1325 kg more than 1959 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. 2003 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Seven |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
