1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Acura EL
To start off, 1998 Acura EL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 88 more horse power than 1998 Acura EL. (127 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura EL.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura EL, 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura EL. (145 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Acura EL | |
| Make | Lotus | Acura |
| Model | Esprit | EL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 127 HP |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2619 mm |
