1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 1991 Rover 100
To start off, 1991 Rover 100 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1991 Rover 100. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1991 Rover 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 250 kg more than 1991 Rover 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Rover 100. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Rover 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 1991 Rover 100 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Esprit | 100 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
