1985 Citroen CX vs. 2004 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Citroen CX would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Citroen CX. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1985 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Citroen CX weights approximately 475 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Citroen CX, 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, 2004 Lotus Elise (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Citroen CX. (159 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Citroen CX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Citroen CX | 2004 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | CX | Elise |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 31 L |
