2001 Lotus Elise vs. 1980 Renault 4
To start off, 2001 Lotus Elise is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lotus Elise (141 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1980 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lotus Elise weights approximately 20 kg more than 1980 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2001 Lotus Elise (179 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Lotus Elise | 1980 Renault 4 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 4 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 955 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 62 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 695 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |