2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1315 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2008 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | GMC | Lotus |
| Model | Sierra | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 353 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6340 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4010 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 67 L |
