1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 1989 Saab 900 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 900 (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 900 weights approximately 598 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900, 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, 1989 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
1960 Lotus Elite | 1989 Saab 900 | |
Make | Lotus | Saab |
Model | Elite | 900 |
Year Released | 1960 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 104 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |