2003 Honda Civic vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2003 Honda Civic is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Civic (108 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda Civic weights approximately 430 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (135 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Honda Civic | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Elite |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 29 L |
