2008 Acura TL vs. 1979 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Acura TL is newer by 29 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura TL (286 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura TL 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, 2008 Acura TL, 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, 2008 Acura TL (347 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2008 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Acura TL 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. 2008 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura TL | 1979 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Acura | Lotus |
| Model | TL | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
