2004 Ford Focus vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 215 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 Ford Focus, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (170 Nm). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Focus | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 67 L |
