2006 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 69 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus, 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Focus 1980 Lotus Esprit
Make Ford Lotus
Model Focus Esprit
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1594 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 271 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 95.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.3 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 7.5:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.5 seconds 6 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1150 kg 1219 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2440 mm