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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) 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 643 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 (270 Nm) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
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 | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1640 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 |
