2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 16 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 70 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1989 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 1989 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier. (203 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cavalier | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
