1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2000 Opel Signum
To start off, 2000 Opel Signum is newer by 26 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 22 more horse power than 2000 Opel Signum. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Signum weights approximately 420 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, 2000 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Signum. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2000 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| 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 | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
