1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 43 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 266 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 720 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, 2005 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elite | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 282 km/hour |
| 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 | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 73 L |
