1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 23 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 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 530 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2004 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Esprit | Megane |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 152 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |