1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2009 Toyota Corolla 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Corolla (158 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 670 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, 2009 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2009 Toyota Corolla (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.

Compare all specifications:

1962 Lotus Elite 2009 Toyota Corolla
Make Lotus Toyota
Model Elite Corolla
Year Released 1962 2009
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1215 cc 2362 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 83 HP 158 HP
Torque 102 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 660 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 3710 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1190 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 50 L