2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 692 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Thunderbird | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2260 mm |
