1971 Ferrari 312 vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1991 Lotus Esprit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1971 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ferrari 312 (464 HP @ 12600 RPM) has 292 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 615 kg more than 1971 Ferrari 312.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ferrari 312 | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | 312 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 464 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 960 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2460 mm |
