1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Saturn SC
To start off, 2001 Saturn SC is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,900 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn SC weights approximately 476 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saturn SC, 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, 2001 Saturn SC (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan. 2001 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 2001 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | SC |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
