1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 1983 Ford Laser
To start off, 1987 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Laser 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 75 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 277 kg more than 1983 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Laser, 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 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser. 1983 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1987 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1987 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 1983 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Lotus | Ford |
| Model | Esprit | Laser |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2370 mm |
