1997 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1997 Cadillac Eldorado is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Cadillac Eldorado (301 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, both vehicles can yield 405 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Cadillac Eldorado has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Cadillac Eldorado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Cadillac Eldorado | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | Eldorado | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
