1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2009 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2009 Saab 9-7X is newer by 29 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 9-7X (390 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 355 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 2009 Saab 9-7X 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, 2009 Saab 9-7X 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, 2009 Saab 9-7X (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Saab 9-7X 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. 2009 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2009 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2880 mm |
