2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2008 Chrysler 300 is newer by 28 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 5,645 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.

Because 2008 Chrysler 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 will offer significantly more control. 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 Chrysler 300 (526 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Chrysler 300 1980 Lotus Esprit
Make Chrysler Lotus
Model 300 Esprit
Year Released 2008 1980
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 5645 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 0 HP 158 HP
Torque 526 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 99.5 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.9 mm 76.2 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1910 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 5010 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 67 L