2004 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2004 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 23 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 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler Sebring is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler Sebring (200 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 368 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 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 2004 Chrysler Sebring (258 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler Sebring will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chrysler Sebring 1981 Lotus Esprit
Make Chrysler Lotus
Model Sebring Esprit
Year Released 2004 1981
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2736 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 200 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 258 Nm 221 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.9:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1488 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 67 L