2002 Lexus ES vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lexus ES 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 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus ES weights approximately 1369 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 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (325 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2002 Lexus ES 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 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus ES | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | ES | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2436 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 31 L |
