1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero
To start off, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 6,350 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,269 HP @ 6075 RPM) has 1082 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero weights approximately 536 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero | |
| Make | Lotus | SSC |
| Model | Elise | Ultimate Aero |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 6350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 1269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6075 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1090 mm |
