UK vs USA — 1962 vs 1963
| Elan Sprint | Cobra 289 FIA Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 126 hp | 271 hp |
| Torque | 113 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,558 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,150 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,134 mm | 2,286 mm |
| Length | 3,683 mm | 3,835 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 654 |
| Original MSRP | — | $5,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 9/10 |
The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Lotus Elan Sprint counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
When UK engineering meets USA craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1962 Lotus Elan Sprint and 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 126 hp, a 145-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elan uses a Inline-4 DOHC 8V displacing 1,558 cc, while the Shelby Cobra 289 relies on a V8 OHV with 4,727 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1962 Lotus Elan Sprint, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1963 Shelby Cobra 289 FIA Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.