1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 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 110 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 70 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |
