2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 1977 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 698 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV, 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 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Esprit | 1977 Mini MK IV | |
Make | Lotus | Mini |
Model | Esprit | MK IV |
Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1974 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1308 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2040 mm |