2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (72 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault 21 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
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, 1986 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (186 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (142 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 21 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2820 mm |
