1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 Renault Fregate
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Renault Fregate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Renault Fregate would be higher. At 2,141 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Renault Fregate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1959 Renault Fregate. (76 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Renault Fregate. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Renault Fregate weights approximately 313 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1959 Renault Fregate 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 1959 Renault Fregate. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1959 Renault Fregate (153 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1959 Renault Fregate will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1959 Renault Fregate | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Fregate |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 76 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2810 mm |
