2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1979 Renault 4
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Elise weights approximately 55 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1979 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, 2002 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 1979 Renault 4 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 4 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 955 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 62 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 750 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 |