1985 AC Cobra vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1985 AC Cobra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (320 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 AC Cobra weights approximately 515 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | AC | Lotus |
| Model | Cobra | Elan |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 29 L |
