1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1996 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1996 Ford Mustang is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 264 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 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. 1996 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1996 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Esprit | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
