1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 31 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (237 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Exige |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 40 L |
