1998 Ford Ka vs. 1991 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 295 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Ka, 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, 1991 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1991 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Ka | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 73 L |
