1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2001 Saturn SC
To start off, 2001 Saturn SC is newer by 20 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 (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn SC weights approximately 3 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saturn SC, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn SC. (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2001 Saturn SC | |
Make | Lotus | Saturn |
Model | Esprit | SC |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 159 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |