1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2004 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Renault Grand Espace. (161 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 750 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Renault Grand Espace (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2004 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Grand Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2004 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
