1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 39 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 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster 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, 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 (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2008 Saturn Aura 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. 2008 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | Aura |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 99.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
