2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1981 Renault 4
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 4 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 (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1981 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 255 kg more than 1981 Renault 4. 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, 1981 Renault 4, 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 (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 4. (63 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1981 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
