1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1960 Porsche 356
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1960 Porsche 356. (115 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1960 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 426 kg more than 1960 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1960 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Esprit | 356 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 52 L |
