1975 Ferrari 312 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1975 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Ferrari 312 (488 HP @ 12200 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 556 kg more than 1975 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:
| 1975 Ferrari 312 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | 312 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 488 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
