1987 Austin Maestro vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1987 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Austin Maestro weights approximately 33 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Austin Maestro, 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 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Maestro | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maestro | Elise |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 32 L |
