1990 Chrysler TC vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1990 Chrysler TC is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1990 Chrysler TC. (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1990 Chrysler TC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chrysler TC weights approximately 255 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Chrysler TC, 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, both vehicles can yield 271 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Chrysler TC | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | TC | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 1219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2440 mm |
