2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Renault 9
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 9 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Renault 9. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Renault 9 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Lotus Elise (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 9. (139 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 9.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1981 Renault 9 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 9 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2490 mm |
