2002 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (406 HP) has 247 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 576 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Corvette (542 Nm) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2002 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chevrolet Corvette | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
Model | Corvette | Esprit |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 5700 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 406 HP | 159 HP |
Torque | 542 Nm | 221 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1643 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2490 mm |