2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1971 Renault 17
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 17 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (396 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1971 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Renault 17 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Renault 17, 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (400 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 17. (133 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1971 Renault 17 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Exige | 17 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 396 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2440 mm |
