1997 Suzuki Swift vs. 2011 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2011 Lotus Exige is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Swift. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Swift would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Swift. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Swift. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lotus Exige weights approximately 169 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Swift. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lotus Exige 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 2011 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Swift, 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, 2011 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Swift. (76 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Swift.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Swift | 2011 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Suzuki | Lotus |
| Model | Swift | Exige |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 76 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 909 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2299 mm |
