2008 Lotus Elise vs. 1982 Renault 9
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 9 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1982 Renault 9. (55 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1982 Renault 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lotus Elise weights approximately 35 kg more than 1982 Renault 9. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Renault 9, 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 9. (104 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 9.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 1982 Renault 9 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 9 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 22.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 146 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 38 L |
