2003 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Peugeot 605
To start off, 2003 Lotus Elise is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Peugeot 605. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Peugeot 605 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Peugeot 605 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Peugeot 605 (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Elise. (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Peugeot 605 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Peugeot 605 weights approximately 574 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Peugeot 605, 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, both vehicles can yield 175 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 1989 Peugeot 605 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elise | 605 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1324 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2810 mm |
