2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Proton 300
To start off, 2003 Proton 300 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 2003 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 305 kg more than 2003 Proton 300. 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, 2003 Proton 300, 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 (400 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Esprit | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3504 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2450 mm |
