1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Renault 4
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 4 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 129 more horse power than 1987 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 325 kg more than 1987 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1987 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 62 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
