1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 264 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Dodge Challenger | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Dodge | Lotus |
Model | Challenger | Esprit |
Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3685 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 277 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2450 mm |