1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Renault Megane
To start off, 2007 Renault Megane is newer by 18 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Megane (221 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Megane weights approximately 255 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2007 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, 2007 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Esprit | 2007 Renault Megane | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Esprit | Megane |
Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 172 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |