1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 218 more horse power than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (202 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1998 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lancia Kappa weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Panoz Esperante.
Because 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (298 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lancia Kappa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Lancia | Panoz |
| Model | Kappa | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
