1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Chevrolet Beretta
To start off, 1991 Chevrolet Beretta is newer by 17 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Chevrolet Beretta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1991 Chevrolet Beretta. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1991 Chevrolet Beretta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chevrolet Beretta weights approximately 227 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, 1991 Chevrolet Beretta, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Chevrolet Beretta. (146 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Chevrolet Beretta. 1991 Chevrolet Beretta has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Chevrolet Beretta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1991 Chevrolet Beretta | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Elite | Beretta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1287 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 68 L |
