1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Renault Spider
To start off, 1997 Renault Spider is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Renault Spider. (140 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 1997 Renault Spider. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1997 Renault Spider | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Spider |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2350 mm |
