1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1984 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1984 Lotus Esprit is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Esprit (158 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 407 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1984 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 31 L |
