2006 Lotus Exige vs. 1980 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2006 Lotus Exige is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Exige (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1980 Peugeot 305. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1980 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Peugeot 305 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 Lotus Exige.
Because 2006 Lotus Exige 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 Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Peugeot 305, 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 Exige (172 Nm @ 6750 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Peugeot 305. (96 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Exige | 1980 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Exige | 305 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| 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 | 916 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 70 L |
