1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 33 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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. 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elite | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 100.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 69 L |
