1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 189 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Esprit | Megane |
Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |