2009 Lotus Elise vs. 2004 Renault Espace
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Renault Espace would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2004 Renault Espace. (161 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Espace weights approximately 861 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Renault Espace, 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 Renault Espace (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 2004 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | Espace |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
