1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1995 Rover 200
To start off, 1995 Rover 200 is newer by 21 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, 1995 Rover 200 (144 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Rover 200 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Rover 200 weights approximately 20 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, 1995 Rover 200, 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, 1995 Rover 200 (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1995 Rover 200 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1995 Rover 200 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elite | 200 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 50 L |
