1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2005 Renault Laguna is newer by 36 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Laguna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Laguna weights approximately 381 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Renault Laguna, 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, 2005 Renault Laguna (151 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Laguna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Laguna |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 68 L |
