2003 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Jensen SV-8 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (264 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 29 kg more than 2003 Jensen SV-8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jensen SV-8 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Jensen | Lotus |
| Model | SV-8 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2460 mm |
