1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 1997 Rover 414i
To start off, 1997 Rover 414i is newer by 17 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 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 55 more horse power than 1997 Rover 414i. (103 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 414i. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 414i weights approximately 340 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1997 Rover 414i, 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) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 414i. (167 Nm). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 414i.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 1997 Rover 414i | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Esprit | 414i |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1460 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2780 mm |
