1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 32 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 29 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 258 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan 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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2006 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elite | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
