1954 DKW F 89 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW F 89. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW F 89 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1954 DKW F 89. (24 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW F 89. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 260 kg more than 1954 DKW F 89. 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, 1954 DKW F 89, 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:
| 1954 DKW F 89 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | DKW | Lotus |
| Model | F 89 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 684 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2440 mm |
