1979 Ferrari 312 vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1988 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1979 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 571 kg more than 1979 Ferrari 312.
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:
| 1979 Ferrari 312 | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | 312 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 508 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2130 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
