1972 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1972 Austin Maxi. (95 HP @ 5350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 308 kg more than 1972 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin Maxi, 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Maxi. (145 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Maxi | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5350 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
