2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1987 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Peugeot 305 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 (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1987 Peugeot 305. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1987 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Peugeot 305 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
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, 1987 Peugeot 305, 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 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Peugeot 305. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1987 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elise | 305 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 70 L |
