1964 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (253 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Aura weights approximately 695 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura, 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, 2008 Saturn Aura (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 2008 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | Aura |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 253 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
