2004 Lotus Esprit vs. 1980 Renault 18
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 18 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1980 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 390 kg more than 1980 Renault 18. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 18. (103 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Esprit | 1980 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | 18 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
