1984 Lotus Esprit vs. 2002 Renault Espace

To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1984 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 703 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 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 1984 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace, 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, 2002 Renault Espace (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lotus Esprit. 2002 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1984 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1984 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Lotus Esprit 2002 Renault Espace
Make Lotus Renault
Model Esprit Espace
Year Released 1984 2002
Body Type Coupe Minivan
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 3498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 158 HP 237 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.3:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 8.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1067 kg 1770 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2740 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.3 L/100km 12.2 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 31 L 83 L