1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 24 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 43 more horse power than 1998 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 290 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, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2640 mm |
