1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1958 Renault Dauphine
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Renault Dauphine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Renault Dauphine would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1958 Renault Dauphine. (33 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1958 Renault Dauphine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 388 kg more than 1958 Renault Dauphine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Renault Dauphine is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 Renault Dauphine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Renault Dauphine. (45 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Renault Dauphine.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1958 Renault Dauphine | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | Dauphine |
Year Released | 1996 | 1958 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 845 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 33 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 45 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 632 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1530 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2280 mm |