1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1986 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 18 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 18. (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1986 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 18 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
