2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lotus Elise weights approximately 141 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Lotus | Talbot |
| Model | Elise | Samba |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 62 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2350 mm |
