1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 62 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | Megane |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2480 mm |
