1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1983 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1983 Peugeot 205 is newer by 21 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Peugeot 205 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 205. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Peugeot 205 weights approximately 235 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, 1983 Peugeot 205, 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, 1983 Peugeot 205 (106 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1983 Peugeot 205 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1983 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elite | 205 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 154 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2430 mm |
