1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 38 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 704 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, 2009 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2009 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. 2009 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elan | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 61 L |
