1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Renault Megane
To start off, 2006 Renault Megane is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Esprit 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 204 more horse power than 2006 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 45 kg more than 1995 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2006 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, 1995 Lotus Esprit (380 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | Megane |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79.6 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 60 L |
