2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 29 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 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 511 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 1980 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | Spider | Esprit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2385 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1219 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |