1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1987 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 167 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
