1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Nissan Xterra

To start off, 2006 Nissan Xterra is newer by 15 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Xterra (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 115 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2006 Nissan Xterra, 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 Nissan Xterra (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Lotus Esprit 2006 Nissan Xterra
Make Lotus Nissan
Model Esprit Xterra
Year Released 1991 2006
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2174 cc 3950 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 172 HP 265 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 385 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1175 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4340 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1160 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 73 L 80 L