1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2007 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saab 03-Sep (206 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 830 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2007 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elite | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
