1975 Lotus Esprit vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1996 Toyota MR2 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1975 Lotus Esprit.
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 Lotus Esprit | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 74 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
