2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 819 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Explorer | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 67 L |
