1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 22 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. Both 1974 Lotus Elite and 1996 Honda S-MX are equipped with a 1,973 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 270 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, 1996 Honda S-MX, 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (191 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 1996 Honda S-MX 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. 1996 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Lotus Elite | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
Make | Lotus | Honda |
Model | Elite | S-MX |
Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1973 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 191 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1330 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |