1997 Kia Clarus vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1997 Kia Clarus is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Clarus weights approximately 1 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Clarus | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Clarus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| 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 | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |
