Italy vs United Kingdom — 1965 vs 1971
| Grifo A3/C | Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 400 hp | 126 hp |
| Torque | 420 lb-ft | 117 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,359 cc | 1,558 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 6.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 171 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 15.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,425 lbs | 1,519 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,499 mm | 2,134 mm |
| Length | 4,201 mm | 3,658 mm |
| Units Produced | 29 | 1,353 |
| Original MSRP | $13,500 | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | — | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. However, the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe counters with lighter weight, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C for outright capability, or the 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C versus 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint Fixed Head Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 126 hp, a 274-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Iso Grifo A3/C uses a V8 displacing 5,359 cc, while the Lotus Elan Sprint relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,558 cc. The 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C claims a higher top speed at 171 mph compared to 120 mph. The Lotus Elan Sprint carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 906 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 29 units built, the 1965 Iso Grifo A3/C is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Elan Sprint's 1,353 examples.