1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 28 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 84 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 2 weights approximately 5 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, 2008 Mazda 2, 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Esprit | 2 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
