2003 Dodge Neon vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 199 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon, 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, both vehicles can yield 298 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Dodge | Lotus |
| Model | Neon | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2440 mm |
