1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2001 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo 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 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForTwo. (74 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 300 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo. 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.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2001 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Lotus | Smart |
Model | Esprit | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 698 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 2510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1520 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 1820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 33 L |