1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Sky (260 HP) has 100 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Sky weights approximately 347 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Saturn Sky 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 Saturn Sky. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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 Saturn Sky (353 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Saturn Sky | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elan | Sky |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |
