1956 Citroen 2CV vs. 1985 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1985 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1956 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 573 kg more than 1956 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Citroen 2CV, 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, 1985 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Citroen 2CV | 1985 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | 2CV | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 374 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 10 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 495 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 31 L |
