1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 25 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 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1999 Opel Signum. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 550 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, 1999 Opel Signum, 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, 1999 Opel Signum (271 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 61 L |
