1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 24 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 376 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, 2004 Opel Signum, 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, 2004 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Signum |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2740 mm |
