1991 Ford Probe vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1991 Ford Probe 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1991 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Probe weights approximately 190 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 Ford Probe, 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 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Probe | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Probe | Elite |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2490 mm |
