1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 524 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 2004 Subaru Outback 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, 2004 Subaru Outback 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, 2004 Subaru Outback (225 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Lotus | Subaru |
| Model | Esprit | Outback |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1592 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 64 L |
