2008 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 370 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, 2003 Saturn L, 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 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Elise | 2003 Saturn L | |
Make | Lotus | Saturn |
Model | Elise | L |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 59 L |