1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Saturn SL
To start off, 1999 Saturn SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1999 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saturn SL weights approximately 359 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saturn SL, 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, 1999 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1999 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1400 mm |
