1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 25 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (270 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2011 Nissan Altima, 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Nissan Altima. (349 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Nissan Altima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Lotus | Nissan |
| Model | Esprit | Altima |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2675 mm |
