1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 237 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (113 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (152 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane. 2004 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | Megane |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2530 mm |
