2006 Citroen C4 vs. 1985 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2006 Citroen C4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen C4 (181 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen C4 should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen C4 weights approximately 344 kg more than 1985 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 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 1985 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Citroen C4, 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, 1985 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Citroen C4. (180 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 1985 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Citroen C4.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Citroen C4 1985 Lotus Esprit
Make Citroen Lotus
Model C4 Esprit
Year Released 2006 1985
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1996 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 7000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.3 seconds 7 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1412 kg 1068 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2490 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.4 L/100km 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 31 L