1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Toyota Previa
To start off, 2005 Toyota Previa 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 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Previa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Previa (160 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Previa should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Previa weights approximately 405 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 Toyota Previa, 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, both vehicles can yield 221 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Toyota Previa | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | Previa |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2900 mm |
