1974 Citroen GS vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1974 Citroen GS is newer by 12 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 1,215 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Citroen GS. (55 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1974 Citroen GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Citroen GS weights approximately 230 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Citroen GS. (72 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Citroen GS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Citroen GS | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | GS | Elite |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1015 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 29 L |
