1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1982 Renault 18
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1982 Renault 18. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Renault 18 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Renault 18, 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, 1998 Lotus Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 18. (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 1982 Renault 18 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 18 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1645 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 136 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |