1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 19 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, 1985 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 63 kg more than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1985 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Lotus | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Esprit | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2610 mm |
