1999 Honda Civic vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Honda Civic is newer by 20 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1999 Honda Civic. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Civic.
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, 1999 Honda Civic, 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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Civic. (124 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Civic | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Honda | Lotus |
| Model | Civic | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
