1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2005 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Esprit (349 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 165 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2005 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 73 L |
