1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Hyundai i20
To start off, 2008 Hyundai i20 is newer by 49 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai i20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai i20 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai i20 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, 2008 Hyundai i20, 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, 2008 Hyundai i20 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai i20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2008 Hyundai i20 | |
| Make | Lotus | Hyundai |
| Model | Elite | i20 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17:01 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2525 mm |
