1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (146 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Lotus |
Model | 3000 Mk III | Esprit |
Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 285 HP |
Torque | 165 Nm | 510 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2420 mm |