1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 215 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1996 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
