2001 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 553 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus, 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, 2001 Chrysler Cirrus (231 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Cirrus | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | Cirrus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Top Speed | 199 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 31 L |
