1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2011 Toyota Prius is newer by 32 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 26 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Prius. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Prius.
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, 2011 Toyota Prius, 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2011 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | Prius |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1745 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
