1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Proton Gen
To start off, 2007 Proton Gen is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Proton Gen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Proton Gen (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Proton Gen should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Proton Gen, 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, 2007 Proton Gen (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Proton Gen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite. 2007 Proton Gen has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Proton Gen will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2007 Proton Gen | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elite | Gen |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 50 L |
