1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elan | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
