1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 46 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lotus Elise weights approximately 221 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Elise |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 32 L |
