1978 Ford Taunus vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 296 more horse power than 1978 Ford Taunus. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Taunus weights approximately 345 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Taunus | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Taunus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
