2006 Lancia Thesis vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2006 Lancia Thesis is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,397 cc, 2006 Lancia Thesis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lancia Thesis (185 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit.

Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lancia Thesis, 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 Lancia Thesis (447 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit. 2006 Lancia Thesis has automatic transmission and 1988 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1988 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lancia Thesis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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