1987 Austin Maestro vs. 2005 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1987 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 465 kg more than 1987 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Austin Maestro, 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, 2005 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Maestro | 2005 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maestro | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 73 L |
