1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1985 Renault Espace
To start off, 1985 Renault Espace is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1985 Renault Espace. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault Espace weights approximately 230 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1985 Renault Espace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Renault Espace will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault Espace. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 1985 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elite | Espace |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 38 L |
