2008 Ford Ka vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 34 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 173 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka.
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, 2008 Ford Ka, 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Ka | Elite |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 142 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 67 L |
