1995 Lotus Elan vs. 1961 Renault 4
To start off, 1995 Lotus Elan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1961 Renault 4. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1961 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Elan weights approximately 480 kg more than 1961 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, 1995 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Renault 4. (51 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 1961 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 4 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 51 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 |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
