2002 Kia Optima vs. 1984 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 365 kg more than 1984 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1984 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 1984 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, 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, 1984 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 1984 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1984 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Optima | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
