1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Honda Insight
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 187 more horse power than 2012 Honda Insight. (98 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Insight.
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, 2012 Honda Insight, 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 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Insight. (167 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Insight.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Lotus | Honda |
| Model | Esprit | Insight |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 98 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2550 mm |
