1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 47 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), 2009 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (240 HP) has 157 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite.
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, 2009 Lotus Exige (231 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2009 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Exige |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| 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 | 240 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
