1999 AC Cobra vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 AC Cobra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 AC Cobra weights approximately 5 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1999 AC Cobra | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | AC | Lotus |
Model | Cobra | Elan |
Year Released | 1999 | 1991 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 365 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 579 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 1025 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2260 mm |