2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1975 Renault 5
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1975 Renault 5. (91 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1975 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Elise weights approximately 55 kg more than 1975 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Renault 5, 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Renault 5. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1975 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 38 L |
