2003 Holden Vectra vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Holden Vectra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Vectra (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Vectra should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Vectra weights approximately 936 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden Vectra, 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, 2003 Holden Vectra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Vectra | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Vectra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
