1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Peugeot 104
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Peugeot 104. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Peugeot 104 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1976 Peugeot 104. (80 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Peugeot 104. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 210 kg more than 1976 Peugeot 104. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Peugeot 104. (109 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Peugeot 104.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1976 Peugeot 104 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elan | 104 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2240 mm |
