2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 623 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 31 L |
