1987 Chrysler TC vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1987 Chrysler TC is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Chrysler TC (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chrysler TC weights approximately 407 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC, 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, 1987 Chrysler TC (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Chrysler TC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Chrysler TC | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | TC | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2490 mm |
