1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Rover 75

To start off, 2006 Rover 75 is newer by 17 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Rover 75 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Rover 75 (256 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (216 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Rover 75 should accelerate faster 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, 2006 Rover 75, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Rover 75. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Rover 75.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Lotus Esprit 2006 Rover 75
Make Lotus Rover
Model Esprit 75
Year Released 1989 2006
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 4601 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 216 HP 256 HP
Torque 298 Nm 245 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 95.3 mm 90.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.2 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 9.4:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1120 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2750 mm