1984 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Subaru Legacy

To start off, 2005 Subaru Legacy is newer by 21 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, 2005 Subaru Legacy (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy should accelerate faster than 1984 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 433 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Subaru Legacy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Legacy will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Subaru Legacy (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Subaru Legacy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Lotus Esprit. 2005 Subaru Legacy has automatic transmission and 1984 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1984 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Subaru Legacy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Lotus Esprit 2005 Subaru Legacy
Make Lotus Subaru
Model Esprit Legacy
Year Released 1984 2005
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 158 HP 242 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2400 RPM
Acceleration 0-100mph 7 seconds 7.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1067 kg 1500 kg
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2660 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 31 L 64 L