1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 MCC Smart
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (172 HP) has 99 more horse power than 2003 MCC Smart. (73 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 211 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 MCC Smart, 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, 1988 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (100 Nm). This means 1988 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 2003 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Lotus | MCC |
| Model | Esprit | Smart |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 73 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
