1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1963 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elite 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 125 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 626 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elite. 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 | 1963 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Esprit | Elite |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 29 L |
