1996 Lotus Elise vs. 2009 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 05-Sep (256 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 873 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 05-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, 2009 Saab 05-Sep (258 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elise | 2009 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elise | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
