1984 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Esprit 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 42 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (116 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 333 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1984 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 1984 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Signum, 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, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Vauxhall |
| Model | Esprit | Signum |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
