1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1979 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | 100 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1955 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2660 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 144 Nm | 217 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2440 mm |