1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 112 kg more than 2002 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Valiant | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2430 mm |
