1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Renault Espace
To start off, 1999 Renault Espace is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1999 Renault Espace. (112 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Espace weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Renault Espace. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Renault Espace. 1999 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1999 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elan | Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
