1985 GMC Suburban vs. 1974 Lotus Elite

To start off, 1985 GMC Suburban is newer by 11 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 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 GMC Suburban (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 GMC Suburban 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, 1985 GMC Suburban 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, 1985 GMC Suburban (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 1985 GMC Suburban 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. 1985 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 GMC Suburban 1974 Lotus Elite
Make GMC Lotus
Model Suburban Elite
Year Released 1985 1974
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4299 cc 1973 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 142 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 312 Nm 177 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 2240 kg 1060 kg
Vehicle Length 5480 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1950 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1800 mm 1220 mm
Wheelbase Size 3300 mm 2490 mm