1971 Jensen SP vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jensen SP. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen SP would be higher. At 7,206 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen SP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen SP (385 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Esprit. (350 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen SP should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Jensen SP weights approximately 443 kg more than 2002 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1971 Jensen SP (557 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Esprit. (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen SP will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Esprit. 1971 Jensen SP has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Jensen SP will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jensen SP | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Jensen | Lotus |
| Model | SP | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 7206 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 385 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 557 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 109.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1783 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
