1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1995 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1995 Renault Safrane is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Renault Safrane (268 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Renault Safrane weights approximately 874 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Renault Safrane is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Renault Safrane will offer significantly more control. 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, 1995 Renault Safrane (365 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1995 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1724 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
