2004 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 30 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 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 154 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier (203 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1214 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 67 L |
