1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (219 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 281 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen 2CV, 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 2CV | Elise |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 44 L |
