1973 Citroen GS vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1974 Lotus Elite is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen GS would be higher. At 1,990 cc, 1973 Citroen GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1973 Citroen GS. (107 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen GS weights approximately 80 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen GS, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen GS. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen GS | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | GS | Elite |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 67 L |
