2003 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan 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) has 89 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 748 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Thunderbird 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 2003 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2003 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2003 Ford Thunderbird 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. 2003 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Thunderbird | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3934 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
