1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (166 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 936 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 Lotus Elise 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace, 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, 1997 Renault Espace (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise. 1997 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1998 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1998 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 1997 Renault Espace | |
Make | Lotus | Renault |
Model | Elise | Espace |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2963 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 235 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1700 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2710 mm |