1993 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 790 kg more than 1993 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 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 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 1993 Lotus Elan. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 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:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2880 mm |
