1978 Lotus Esprit vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1978 Lotus Esprit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,972 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 380 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite.
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:
| 1978 Lotus Esprit | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Elite |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1972 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 71 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
