1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Subaru SVX

To start off, 1998 Subaru SVX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,318 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Subaru SVX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Subaru SVX (218 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Subaru SVX should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Subaru SVX weights approximately 552 kg more than 1985 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Subaru SVX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Subaru SVX 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, 1998 Subaru SVX (301 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Subaru SVX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit. 1998 Subaru SVX has automatic transmission and 1985 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1985 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Subaru SVX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Lotus Esprit 1998 Subaru SVX
Make Lotus Subaru
Model Esprit SVX
Year Released 1985 1998
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 3318 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 158 HP 218 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 301 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 95.3 mm 96.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.2 mm 75 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1068 kg 1620 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1310 mm