2008 Kia Sorento vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Kia Sorento. (262 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Sorento.
Because 2008 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Sorento. (353 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Sorento. 2008 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Sorento | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2420 mm |
