2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Peugeot 306
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Peugeot 306 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 100 more horse power than 1999 Peugeot 306. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 252 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, 1999 Peugeot 306, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Peugeot 306. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Peugeot 306.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1999 Peugeot 306 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Elise | 306 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
