2003 Lotus Esprit vs. 1986 Renault 21
To start off, 2003 Lotus Esprit is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault 21 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 Renault 21. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 170 kg more than 1986 Renault 21. 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, 1986 Renault 21, 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 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Renault 21. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Renault 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Esprit | 1986 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | 21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2760 mm |
