1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 16 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1985 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 1985 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 75 L |
