1963 AC Cobra vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,727 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 AC Cobra (271 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 AC Cobra weights approximately 30 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1963 AC Cobra (423 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1963 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1963 AC Cobra | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AC | Lotus |
Model | Cobra | Elan |
Year Released | 1963 | 1989 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4727 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 423 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1020 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |