1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 22 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 58 more horse power than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 115 kg more than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Esprit | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
