1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Saab 900
To start off, 1991 Saab 900 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 900 (138 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 900 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Saab 900 (180 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1991 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elite | 900 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
