1972 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is newer by 10 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 5,765 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (330 HP) has 247 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 722 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 De Tomaso Pantera (441 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1972 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 De Tomaso Pantera | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Lotus |
| Model | Pantera | Elite |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5765 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1382 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 29 L |
