1970 Chrysler 300 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 7,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Chrysler 300 (370 HP) has 212 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Chrysler 300, 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, 1970 Chrysler 300 (651 Nm) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 1970 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 1970 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Chrysler 300 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 300 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 7209 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 370 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5640 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2440 mm |
