1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 890 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. 2006 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2006 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elan | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| 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 Weight | 700 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
