1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Citroen GSA weights approximately 170 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 Lotus Elise 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen GSA, 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Citroen GSA | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Citroen | Lotus |
Model | GSA | Elise |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2310 mm |