1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1965 Pontiac Tempest
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1965 Pontiac Tempest. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1965 Pontiac Tempest. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 144 kg more than 1980 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1965 Pontiac Tempest | |
| Make | Lotus | Pontiac |
| Model | Esprit | Tempest |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2930 mm |
