1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1982 Renault 5
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 5 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 5 more horse power than 1982 Renault 5. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 50 kg more than 1982 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Renault 5 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 1982 Renault 5. 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, 1982 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1982 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1982 Renault 5 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elan | 5 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2490 mm |