1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 462 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Esprit | Signum |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
