1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Mahindra CL
To start off, 2005 Mahindra CL 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 2,523 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mahindra CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Mahindra CL. (62 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2005 Mahindra CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mahindra CL weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 2005 Mahindra CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mahindra CL will offer significantly more control. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mahindra CL. (165 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mahindra CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Mahindra CL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mahindra |
| Model | Elite | CL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2040 mm |
