1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1979 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 511 kg more than 1979 Toyota Starlet.
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 | 1979 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2310 mm |
