1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 355 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi, 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3504 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
