1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Esprit 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 (301 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1997 Rover 400. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 400.
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, 1997 Rover 400, 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 (380 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Rover |
| Model | Esprit | 400 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2560 mm |
