1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1998 Holden Nova
To start off, 1998 Holden Nova 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 2 kg more than 1998 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Holden Nova, 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 (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 1998 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1998 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Lotus | Holden |
| Model | Esprit | Nova |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2470 mm |
