2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 28 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Neon (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Neon weights approximately 146 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 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, 2002 Dodge Neon, 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, 2002 Dodge Neon (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2002 Dodge Neon 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. 2002 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Neon | Elite |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 67 L |
