1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 1977 Renault 14
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 14 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (301 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1977 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 450 kg more than 1977 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Renault 14, 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, 1995 Lotus Esprit (380 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 14. (93 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 1977 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | 14 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 48 L |
