1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 702 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
