1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 327 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Lotus | ZAZ |
| Model | Esprit | 966 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2170 mm |
