1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1988 Renault 21 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 21 weights approximately 403 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1988 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 21 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1430 mm |
