1995 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 17 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 (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Lotus | Chevrolet |
| Model | Esprit | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 46 L |
