1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Renault Clio
To start off, 2008 Renault Clio is newer by 39 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Clio (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Clio weights approximately 400 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 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, 2008 Renault Clio, 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, 2008 Renault Clio (195 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2008 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Clio |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
