1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1983 Renault 4
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 4 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 (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1983 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lotus Elise weights approximately 19 kg more than 1983 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1983 Renault 4, 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 (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 1983 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
