1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1991 Renault 21
To start off, 1991 Renault 21 is newer by 29 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Renault 21. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault 21 weights approximately 295 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, 1991 Renault 21, 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, 1991 Renault 21 (129 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1991 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elite | 21 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| 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 | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
