2007 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Renault 14
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1976 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Renault 14 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Renault 14, 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, 2007 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lotus Elise | 1976 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 14 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 48 L |
