2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1969 Saab Sonett
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Saab Sonett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Saab Sonett would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1969 Saab Sonett. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1969 Saab Sonett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Saab Sonett weights approximately 25 kg more than 2001 Lotus Elise.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Saab Sonett, 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, 2001 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Saab Sonett. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Saab Sonett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lotus Elise | 1969 Saab Sonett | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elise | Sonett |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 58.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
