2001 Ferrari F550 vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2001 Ferrari F550 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Ferrari F550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ferrari F550 (485 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ferrari F550 weights approximately 623 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ferrari F550, 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 Ferrari F550 (570 Nm) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2001 Ferrari F550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ferrari F550 | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ferrari | Lotus |
| Model | F550 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5474 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2490 mm |
