2003 Lotus Esprit vs. 1981 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Lotus Esprit is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 18 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1981 Renault 18. (66 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 255 kg more than 1981 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Renault 18, 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, 2003 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 18. (124 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Esprit | 1981 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
