1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 23 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 (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 67 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. 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, 2003 Holden Astra, 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 (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2003 Holden Astra 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. 2003 Holden Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Holden |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
