1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Kia Cadenza
To start off, 2010 Kia Cadenza is newer by 22 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Kia Cadenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Cadenza (290 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Cadenza should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Cadenza weights approximately 399 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2010 Kia Cadenza, 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. 2010 Kia Cadenza has automatic transmission and 1988 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1988 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Kia Cadenza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Kia Cadenza | |
| Make | Lotus | Kia |
| Model | Esprit | Cadenza |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 290 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4965 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2845 mm |
