1978 Ford Capri vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (236 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Capri | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Capri | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
