2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2000 Citroen Xsara. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2000 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 100 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara (217 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | Xsara | Elite |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 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 | 1160 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 67 L |
