1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2004 Toyota 4Runner 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota 4Runner (245 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 758 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota 4Runner (382 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1964 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 87 L |
