2003 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 20 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2003 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Esprit | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
