1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep 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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 477 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 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 Saab 03-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, 2004 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 58 L |
