1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1968 Subaru FF-1
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Subaru FF-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Subaru FF-1 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1968 Subaru FF-1. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1968 Subaru FF-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 425 kg more than 1968 Subaru FF-1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Subaru FF-1, 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Subaru FF-1. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Subaru FF-1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1968 Subaru FF-1 | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Esprit | FF-1 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 64 L |
