1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 26 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Esprit | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 276 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2660 mm |
