1986 Chrysler ES vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1986 Chrysler ES is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Chrysler ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1986 Chrysler ES. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 Chrysler ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 25 kg more than 1986 Chrysler ES. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Chrysler ES, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chrysler ES. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chrysler ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chrysler ES | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | ES | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2450 mm |
