2002 Acura RSX vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 21 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RSX weights approximately 163 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, 2002 Acura RSX, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX 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. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Acura RSX | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Acura | Lotus |
Model | RSX | Esprit |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 221 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2490 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 31 L |