1961 AC Ace vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Elise weights approximately 99 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. 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. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | AC | Lotus |
| Model | Ace | Elise |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 44 L |
