1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 638 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Opel Vectra 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. 2008 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 60 L |
