1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Rover 75
To start off, 2005 Rover 75 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Rover 75 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2005 Rover 75. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2005 Rover 75. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Rover 75 weights approximately 525 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, 2005 Rover 75, 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, 2005 Rover 75 (300 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Rover 75 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Rover 75 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Elite | 75 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
