2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1974 Renault 5
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 5 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 (186 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1974 Renault 5. (33 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 70 kg more than 1974 Renault 5. 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, 1974 Renault 5, 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 (133 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 5. (53 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1974 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
