1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (173 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix. 2012 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Esprit | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 132 HP |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2601 mm |
