2009 Lada 21 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2009 Lada 21 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Lada 21. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2009 Lada 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada 21 weights approximately 55 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, 2009 Lada 21, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lada 21. (131 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lada 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lada 21 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Lada | Lotus |
| Model | 21 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 142 HP |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 67 L |
