2009 Citroen C4 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Citroen C4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C4. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C4 weights approximately 243 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C4. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C4 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C4 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 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 |
