2006 Lexus RX vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus RX (226 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1979 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 1979 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX, 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 Lexus RX (323 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 2006 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus RX | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | RX | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
