1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Renault Clio
To start off, 1998 Renault Clio is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (79 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 150 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1998 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Clio |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
