2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (91 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Renault 21 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2006 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (138 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lotus Elise | 1989 Renault 21 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 21 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1075 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 |