2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. 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:
| 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1170 mm |
