2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (156 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Renault 12 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Renault 12, 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 806 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 56 L |
