2009 Dodge Caliber vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2009 Dodge Caliber is newer by 35 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Dodge Caliber, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Caliber. (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Caliber | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Caliber | Elite |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 67 L |
