1975 Simca 1309 vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Simca 1309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Simca 1309 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1975 Simca 1309. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1975 Simca 1309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Simca 1309 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2011 Lotus Elise.
Because 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Simca 1309, 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 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Simca 1309. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Simca 1309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Simca 1309 | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Simca | Lotus |
| Model | 1309 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 44 L |
