1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 630 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elite | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
