1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 21 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, 2012 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Civic weights approximately 92 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (193 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Esprit | Civic |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1445 mm |
