1980 Lancia Gamma vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1980 Lancia Gamma is newer by 6 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 260 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, 1980 Lancia Gamma, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Gamma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Gamma | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Lancia | Lotus |
| Model | Gamma | Elite |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 67 L |
