1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (271 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 421 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2006 Saab 03-Sep (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Lotus | Saab |
| Model | Esprit | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 256 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 61 L |
