1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2000 Renault Clio
To start off, 2000 Renault Clio is newer by 4 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), 2000 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Renault Clio (171 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Renault Clio weights approximately 35 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Renault Clio. (200 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2000 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| 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 | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2480 mm |
