1996 Kia Clarus vs. 1984 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Kia Clarus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Kia Clarus weights approximately 153 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1984 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 1984 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Kia Clarus, 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, 1984 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Clarus | 1984 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Clarus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
