1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 25 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 58 L |
