1948 Jaguar XK vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1948 Jaguar XK. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1948 Jaguar XK.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Jaguar XK. (264 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jaguar XK | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Jaguar | Lotus |
| Model | XK | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2420 mm |
