1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1994 Renault 21
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1994 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1994 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Renault 21 weights approximately 85 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1994 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | 21 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2820 mm |
