2004 Lotus Elise vs. 1987 Renault 21
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Renault 21 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Renault 21, 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, 1987 Renault 21 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Lotus Elise. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Lotus Elise | 1987 Renault 21 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 21 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
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 | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2610 mm |