1974 AC 428 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 410 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 1974 AC 428 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 1974 AC 428. 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, 1974 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1974 AC 428 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AC | Lotus |
Model | 428 | Elan |
Year Released | 1974 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 298 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 639 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |