2004 Lotus Esprit vs. 1975 Mini MK III
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mini MK III would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1975 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 770 kg more than 1975 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK III, 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 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mini MK III. (61 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Esprit | 1975 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Lotus | Mini |
| Model | Esprit | MK III |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2040 mm |
