1975 Austin 1800 vs. 2005 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1975 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 190 kg more than 1975 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Austin 1800, 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, 2005 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin 1800 | 2005 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | 1800 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 73 L |
