1989 Ford Probe vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 128 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 362 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Probe | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
