1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1986 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1986 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1986 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1986 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 80 kg more than 1986 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Plymouth Horizon, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Plymouth Horizon. (118 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1986 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Lotus | Plymouth |
| Model | Elite | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2530 mm |
