1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1991 Renault Espace
To start off, 1991 Renault Espace is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1991 Renault Espace. (103 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault Espace weights approximately 620 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Renault Espace, 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, 1991 Renault Espace (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1991 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Espace |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 77 L |
