 Conversion of a Lexington to an aircraft carrier had both positive and negative aspects when compared with a " specifically designed carrier " . While the conversion would have better anti @-@ torpedo protection , larger magazines for aircraft bombs than a keel @-@ up carrier and a more room for aircraft landings ( the after elevator would be 28 feet farther up ) , it would also be a half @-@ knot slower with less hangar space ( about 16 percent less ) , less emergency fuel and " narrower lines " aft ( pilots landing on the converted battlecruiser would not have as wide of a runway to aim for ) . Comparing costs , a brand @-@ new aircraft carrier would cost $ 27 @.@ 1 million , while a conversion of one of the Lexington class , not counting the $ 6 @.@ 7 million already sunk into them , would cost $ 22 @.@ 4 million . 
