2004 Lotus Esprit vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (241 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 485 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lotus Esprit | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
