1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2000 Mitsubishi SSS
To start off, 2000 Mitsubishi SSS is newer by 20 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mitsubishi SSS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2000 Mitsubishi SSS. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2000 Mitsubishi SSS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mitsubishi SSS weights approximately 699 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, 2000 Mitsubishi SSS, 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 (277 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mitsubishi SSS. (270 Nm). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mitsubishi SSS. 2000 Mitsubishi SSS 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. 2000 Mitsubishi SSS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2000 Mitsubishi SSS | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Esprit | SSS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 71 L |
