1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 29 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), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (123 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 573 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Elite | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| 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 | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
