1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2006 Saab 9-7X is newer by 37 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 4,195 cc, 2006 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 9-7X (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 636 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Saab 9-7X, 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, 2006 Saab 9-7X (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2006 Saab 9-7X has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2006 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elan | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4195 cc |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 101.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 83 L |
