1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Renault Clio
To start off, 1998 Renault Clio is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (88 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Renault Clio, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (131 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Esprit | Clio |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 88 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
