1976 Holden Statesman vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 360 kg more than 1989 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Statesman | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Statesman | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5040 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2440 mm |
