1996 Chrysler Viper vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Viper is newer by 22 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 530 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 443 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Viper | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Viper | Elite |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
