1997 Honda Prelude vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1997 Honda Prelude is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (220 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude, 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, 1997 Honda Prelude (221 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda Prelude | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Prelude | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2155 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2440 mm |
