1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 22 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 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (207 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 546 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
