1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 MG ZT
To start off, 2008 MG ZT 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 MG ZT. (187 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 MG ZT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZT weights approximately 354 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 MG ZT, 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 (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 MG ZT. (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 MG ZT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 MG ZT | |
| Make | Lotus | MG |
| Model | Esprit | ZT |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82.8 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
