1984 Lotus Esprit vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 1984 Lotus Esprit is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 187 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lotus Esprit | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | Esprit | 356 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2110 mm |
