2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (155 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1986 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (203 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cobalt | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
