1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Hyundai Tucson

To start off, 2012 Hyundai Tucson is newer by 33 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, 2012 Hyundai Tucson (165 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Tucson 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, 2012 Hyundai Tucson, 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Tucson. (198 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Tucson. 2012 Hyundai Tucson has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Tucson will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Lotus Esprit 2012 Hyundai Tucson
Make Lotus Hyundai
Model Esprit Tucson
Year Released 1979 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 160 HP 165 HP
Torque 217 Nm 198 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4399 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1821 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1656 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2639 mm