1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 24 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 53 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Esprit | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 46 L |
