2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 22 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 95 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 67 L |
