1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Peugeot 407
To start off, 2010 Peugeot 407 is newer by 29 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Peugeot 407 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 208 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Peugeot 407 weights approximately 4 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, 2010 Peugeot 407, 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, 2010 Peugeot 407 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Peugeot 407 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Peugeot 407 | |
| Make | Lotus | Peugeot |
| Model | Esprit | 407 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1204 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 67 L |
