1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 24 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 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (197 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 420 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima (271 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Lotus | Nissan |
Model | Esprit | Maxima |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2988 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |