1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Proton 300
To start off, 1999 Proton 300 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1999 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 140 kg more than 1999 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Proton 300, 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Esprit | 300 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
