1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Rover Montego
To start off, 1989 Rover Montego 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1989 Rover Montego. (117 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1989 Rover Montego.
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 Rover Montego, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Rover Montego. (182 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Rover Montego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1989 Rover Montego | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Esprit | Montego |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 117 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
