1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1996 TVR Chimaera is newer by 17 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 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1979 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lotus Esprit | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
Make | Lotus | TVR |
Model | Esprit | Chimaera |
Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3946 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 225 HP |
Torque | 217 Nm | 373 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1220 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2290 mm |