2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1990 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (170 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 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 301 kg more than 1990 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1990 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 1990 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1990 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Hyundai | Lotus |
| Model | Sonata | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
