1991 Cadillac DeVille vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1991 Cadillac DeVille is newer by 17 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 4,087 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Cadillac DeVille is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1991 Cadillac DeVille. (129 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1991 Cadillac DeVille. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Cadillac DeVille weights approximately 480 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, 1991 Cadillac DeVille, 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, 1991 Cadillac DeVille (271 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Cadillac DeVille will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 1991 Cadillac DeVille 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. 1991 Cadillac DeVille will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Cadillac DeVille | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | DeVille | Elite |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4087 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2490 mm |
