1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 305 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 4 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
