1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Saturn SC
To start off, 2002 Saturn SC is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn SC weights approximately 220 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Saturn SC (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2002 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | SC |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
