1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Renault 19
To start off, 1989 Renault 19 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 Renault 19. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 103 kg more than 1989 Renault 19. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Renault 19, 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, 1985 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 19. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 1989 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | 19 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1068 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 115 L |
