2006 Lexus IS vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 32 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 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 445 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | IS | Elite |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |
