1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,142 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2004 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2004 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Holden | Lotus |
| Model | Commodore | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4142 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
