2008 Lexus RX vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 909 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Lexus RX 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 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus RX | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Lexus | Lotus |
| Model | RX | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3311 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2115 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
