1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 40 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 580 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, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
Make | Lotus | Saturn |
Model | Elan | Astra |
Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |