1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2011 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 42 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 03-Sep 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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elan | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 58 L |
