2002 AC Cobra vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 AC Cobra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 AC Cobra weights approximately 40 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 AC Cobra | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | AC | Lotus |
| Model | Cobra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 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 |
