2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (243 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1988 Renault 19. (91 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 19 weights approximately 66 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, 1988 Renault 19, 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 (236 Nm @ 7000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 19. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Exige | 19 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 38 L |
