1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Saturn Vue
To start off, 2003 Saturn Vue is newer by 37 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn Vue is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn Vue (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn Vue should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn Vue weights approximately 750 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Saturn Vue, 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 Saturn Vue (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn Vue will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2003 Saturn Vue | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | Vue |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
