2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 388 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (277 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3353 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 67 L |
