1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1974 Renault 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 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 240 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 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 1962 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elite | 12 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 56 L |
