2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 13 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (261 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1996 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 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (353 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Lotus |
| Model | Cobalt | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2420 mm |
