1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 1986 Renault 21 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (159 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 97 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Renault 21, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (72 Nm). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 1986 Renault 21 | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Esprit | 21 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 159 HP | 70 HP |
Torque | 221 Nm | 72 Nm |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 14.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 66 L |