2007 Citroen C4 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Citroen C4 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Citroen C4 (181 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Citroen C4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Citroen C4 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Citroen C4. (180 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Citroen C4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Citroen C4 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C4 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
