2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1975 Saab 99
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Elise (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1975 Saab 99. (95 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1975 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Saab 99 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99, 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 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Saab 99. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1975 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elise | 99 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2480 mm |
