1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Saab 9000 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 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (135 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 645 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 9000, 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 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 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 9000 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elite | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1991 |
| 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 | 135 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 54 L |
