1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 1965 Mini MK I
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mini MK I would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1965 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1965 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 724 kg more than 1965 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 Mini MK I, 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, 1995 Lotus Esprit (354 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 1965 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Esprit | MK I |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 846 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1339 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2040 mm |
