1987 Austin Montego vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Austin Montego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Austin Montego would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 264 more horse power than 1987 Austin Montego. (85 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Montego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Austin Montego weights approximately 435 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Austin Montego, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Montego. (134 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Montego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Montego | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Montego | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2310 mm |
