1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 1981 Renault 18 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 18 weights approximately 289 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1966 Lotus Elan (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Lotus Elan | 1981 Renault 18 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | 18 |
Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 103 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 985 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |