1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1985 Renault 25
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 25. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 25 would be higher. At 2,456 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Renault 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Renault 25 (205 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Renault 25 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault 25 weights approximately 696 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. 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, 1985 Renault 25, 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) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault 25. (72 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault 25.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 1985 Renault 25 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 25 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2730 mm |
