1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 1985 Renault 18 is newer by 25 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault 18 weights approximately 553 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Renault 18, 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, 1985 Renault 18 (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elite | 18 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 582 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1410 mm |
