2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lotus Esprit (158 HP) has 99 more horse power than 2003 Citroen C3. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 14 kg more than 2003 Citroen C3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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, 1982 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Citroen C3. (95 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1982 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 31 L |
