1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 853 kg more than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | Megane |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 10.7 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 | 1920 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
