2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1986 Saab 900
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 900 weights approximately 299 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 900, 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1986 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Elise | 900 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2530 mm |
