1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Mini MK V
To start off, 1989 Mini MK V is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1989 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1989 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 437 kg more than 1989 Mini MK V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mini MK V, 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 1989 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Esprit | MK V |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2040 mm |
