1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2011 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 29 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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit. 2011 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1982 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1982 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 2011 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4646 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1438 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
