1962 AC Cobra vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,265 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 AC Cobra (256 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 13 kg more than 1962 AC Cobra.
Because 1962 AC Cobra 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 1962 AC Cobra. 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, 1962 AC Cobra (365 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1962 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 AC Cobra | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | AC | Lotus |
| Model | Cobra | Elan |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2260 mm |
