1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (416 HP) has 256 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS 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, 2012 Lexus IS (502 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 2012 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Lotus | Lexus |
Model | Esprit | IS |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 5000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 416 HP |
Torque | 217 Nm | 502 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4661 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2731 mm |