1949 Citroen 11 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Citroen 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Citroen 11 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1949 Citroen 11. (55 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1949 Citroen 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 80 kg more than 1949 Citroen 11. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1949 Citroen 11, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Citroen 11 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 11 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2450 mm |
