1963 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum is newer by 40 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Signum should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 801 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Vauxhall Signum, 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, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Elan | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
| Model | Elan | Signum |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 594 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2840 mm |
