2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 1989 Ford Laser

To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser 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 174 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 508 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser. 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, 1989 Ford Laser, 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 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser. 1989 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Lotus Esprit 1989 Ford Laser
Make Lotus Ford
Model Esprit Laser
Year Released 2002 1989
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 1974 cc 1294 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 240 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 294 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1308 kg 800 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1160 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2410 mm