1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1986 Rover 825i
To start off, 1986 Rover 825i 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Rover 825i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Rover 825i (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Rover 825i should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Rover 825i weights approximately 296 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. 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 Rover 825i, 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, 1986 Rover 825i (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Rover 825i will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1986 Rover 825i | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elite | 825i |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
