1997 Lotus Elise vs. 1988 Renault 21
To start off, 1997 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lotus Elise (117 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 21 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1997 Lotus Elise.
Because 1997 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, 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, 1997 Lotus Elise (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lotus Elise | 1988 Renault 21 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 21 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1870 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2820 mm |