2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 13 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 31 L |
