1953 AC Ace vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 AC Ace would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1953 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1953 AC Ace. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1953 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 258 kg more than 1953 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 AC Ace 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 1953 AC Ace. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 AC Ace. (149 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
1953 AC Ace | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AC | Lotus |
Model | Ace | Elan |
Year Released | 1953 | 1996 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2260 mm |