1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2006 Mini Cooper is newer by 27 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, 2006 Mini Cooper (168 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mini Cooper 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, 2006 Mini Cooper, 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, 2006 Mini Cooper (220 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2006 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Esprit | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
