1986 Ford Orion vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Orion would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 260 more horse power than 1986 Ford Orion. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 448 kg more than 1986 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Orion. (133 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Orion. 1986 Ford Orion has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Orion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Orion | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Orion | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 286 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2440 mm |
