2008 Citroen C5 vs. 1986 Lotus Excel
To start off, 2008 Citroen C5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen C5 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Excel. (180 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C5 weights approximately 412 kg more than 1986 Lotus Excel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Lotus Excel 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 1986 Lotus Excel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C5, 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 Citroen C5 (286 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Excel. (224 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C5 | 1986 Lotus Excel | |
| Make | Citroen | Lotus |
| Model | C5 | Excel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1589 kg | 1177 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1020 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 31 L |
