1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 2013 Mini Countryman
To start off, 2013 Mini Countryman is newer by 25 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mini Countryman weights approximately 209 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2013 Mini Countryman, 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, 2013 Mini Countryman (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Mini Countryman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 2013 Mini Countryman | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Esprit | Countryman |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1996 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1561 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2595 mm |
