2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1969 Renault 12
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1969 Renault 12. (113 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1969 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 24 kg more than 1969 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Renault 12, 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Renault 12. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 1969 Renault 12 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | 12 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 89 L |