1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Lotus Elite (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Because 1960 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 1960 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1960 Lotus Elite (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1960 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elite | 12 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
