1965 AC 427 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 AC 427. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 AC 427 would be higher. At 6,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 AC 427 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 AC 427 (410 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 AC 427 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 AC 427 weights approximately 377 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 AC 427 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 1965 AC 427. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1965 AC 427 (652 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1965 AC 427 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan. 1965 AC 427 has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1965 AC 427 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1965 AC 427 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AC | Lotus |
Model | 427 | Elan |
Year Released | 1965 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6997 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 410 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 652 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1397 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2260 mm |