1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Buick Century
To start off, 1989 Buick Century is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Century (161 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Buick Century, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1989 Buick Century (251 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 1989 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1989 Buick Century | |
| Make | Lotus | Buick |
| Model | Esprit | Century |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2662 mm |
