1979 Honda Prelude vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1979 Honda Prelude is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,750 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Honda Prelude (90 HP) has 7 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Honda Prelude weights approximately 230 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Honda Prelude, 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, 1979 Honda Prelude (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1979 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Honda Prelude | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Prelude | Elite |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1750 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 29 L |
